A "STEEP increase" in cases of scarlet fever has prompted a county-wide warning of the highly contagious infection.
Latest figures from Public Health England show there were 1,265 new cases reported in the first 6 weeks of 2015, with more than 300 of them reported last week (Feb 2-9).
Reports of the outbreaks are "above what is typical this time of the year".
In Surrey, Sussex and Kent there have been 84 reported cases so far this year. This is compared to 60 during the same period last year.
GPs, schools and parents are urged to be aware of the symptoms and take quick action if they suspect anyone has the illness.
Dr Theresa Lamagni, PHE's head of streptococcal infection surveillance, said: "As we enter into high season for scarlet fever, we ask GPs and other frontline medical staff to be mindful of the current high levels of scarlet fever activity when assessing patients.
"Schools and nurseries should similarly be mindful of the current elevated levels of scarlet fever and promptly inform local health protection teams at an early stage if they become aware of cases, especially if more than one child is affected."
What is it:
A bacterial illness that causes a distinctive pink-red rash.
Symptoms:
The first symptoms of scarlet fever include a sore throat and fever which may be accompanied by a headache, nausea and vomiting.
Between 12 to 48 hours after this, a characteristic fine, sandpapery rash develops, often appearing first on the chest or stomach.
Cases are more common in children although adults of all ages can also develop scarlet fever.
What to do:
Individuals who think they or their child may have scarlet fever should consult their GP.
Symptoms usually clear up after a week and in the majority of cases remain reasonably mild providing a course of antibiotics is completed to reduce the risk of complications.
Treatment:
As scarlet fever is highly contagious, children or adults diagnosed with scarlet fever are advised to stay at home until at least 24 hours after the start of antibiotic treatment to avoid passing on the infection.
For families and friends caring for someone with scarlet fever, the risk of spread can be reduced through frequent hand washing and ensuring clothes, bedding, towels and cutlery are not shared between members of the household
