Glandular Fever also known as “Kissing Disease” is a contagious viral disease, passed by direct contact (such as kissing). The disease is characterized by swollen glands, fever and possibly skin eruptions.

Glandular Fever Symptoms

• Fever which may last for weeks
• Lymph nodes are enlarged and tender
• Lymph nodes at the back of the head may be most severely affected
• May be difficult to open the mouth because of the swelling
• Excessive production of saliva in the mouth
• Sore throat often with discharge on the tonsils
• Generally feeling unwell
• Spleen may also be affected and enlarged
• Resultant fatigue may last for months
• May occasionally be associated with generalized rash
• Occasionally can affect other organs including the lungs, heart and brain

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Scarlet Fever is an infectious bacterial childhood disease characterized by a skin rash, sore throat, and fever. It is much less common and dangerous than it once was. No longer a reportable disease, no one knows for sure how many cases occur today in the United States, although it is believed that the disease has been on the increase in the past few years.

In the past the disease was associated with poor living conditions that once swept through large cities, killing large numbers of children. Inexplicably, by the 1920s the death rate of the disease dropped to 5 percent, for reasons that are still not completely understood. It is believed that the bacteria underwent a natural mutation
that made it less deadly.

The introduction of penicillin reduced the death rate even more. Today most cases occur in middle-class suburbs, not in inner cities. Because it is possible to get strep infection and scarlet fever more than once, and because the incidence of all strep infections is rising, prompt medical attention is important when strep is suspected. A child with a sore throat or skin rash should see a doctor.

What causes Scarlet Fever?

Scarlet fever is caused by an infection with group A Streptococcus. Scarlet fever strains of the bacteria produce toxins that are released in the skin, causing a bright red rash that feels a bit like sandpaper. The disease is spread in droplets during coughing or breathing, or by sharing food and drink. When bacteria particles are released into the air, they can be picked up by others close by. For this reason, some experts advise children to avoid drinking fountains.

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