Parents across Crewe and Nantwich are being warned to look for signs of scarlet fever amid rise in cases across the region.
The symptoms of scarlet fever are a fine pinkish or red rash that feels similar to sandpaper – in conjunction with a sore throat, headache and fever.
Children with these symptoms should see a GP as soon as possible or call NHS 111.
Scarlet fever cases usually occur at this time of year, but health chiefs are concerned at the higher number of cases than expected in 2018.
It mostly affects children under 10 and is less common in teenagers and adults.
Scarlet fever spreads from person to person very easily and can lead to more severe complications if not treated with antibiotics.
Infection can be slowed down or stopped by thorough hand washing and by keeping children off school for at least 24 hours after their GP has started them on antibiotics.
Dr Matt Tyrer, health protection lead at Cheshire East Council, said: “Although scarlet fever is a mild illness it spreads very easily.
“With more cases than usual being seen this year it’s very important for parents to recognise the signs, so that their children can be treated early.
“Scarlet fever usually starts with a sore throat, fever and headaches.
“The rash usually starts on the chest or tummy before spreading over the body and is rough to the touch, like sandpaper.
“It used to be more common than it is today – however, GPs have been seeing more cases than usual this year.
“If parents think that their child has the symptoms of scarlet fever we urge them to contact their GP, so that they can be assessed and treated as soon as possible.
“It’s also important that the children are kept out of school at least 24 hours after starting taking the antibiotics.”
For more information about scarlet fever and its symptoms, visit the NHS webpage www.nhs.uk/conditions/scarlet-fever/
There are cases of it in the Medway towns Kent.