Last Updated on February 17, 2025 by tanya

Misdiagnosing Measles as Scarlet Fever

 

Can I Claim Compensation?

Misdiagnosing measles as scarlet fever can lead to severe health risks, delayed treatments, and even outbreaks of preventable diseases. Both measles and scarlet fever present with symptoms such as fever and rash, which makes it difficult to differentiate them.

However, there are key differences between these two illnesses. But mistaking one for the other can have devastating results, as measles can lead to pneumonia and encephalitis. Meanwhile scarlet fever is a bacterial infection which requires antibiotics.  A delay in correct treatment for scarlet fever can result in rheumatic heart disease or kidney infection.

If you or a loved one have been misdiagnosed and are seeking compensation for medical negligence, First Personal Injury may be able to help.

 

Understanding Measles and Scarlet Fever

 

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection caused by a virus and primarily affects children. It spreads through droplets from coughs and sneezes, with an incubation period of 7-14 days. Symptoms include:

• High fever
• Cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes
• Koplik spots (tiny white spots inside the mouth)
• A red, blotchy rash that starts on the face and spreads downward

 

Scarlet fever, on the other hand, is a bacterial infection caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria. It commonly develops in children who have strep throat and presents with symptoms such as:

• Sore throat and fever
• A fine, red rash with a sandpaper-like texture
• A “strawberry tongue” (red and swollen with a white coating)
• Flushed cheeks and pale skin around the mouth

 

Consequences of Misdiagnosing Measles as Scarlet Fever

Delayed or Improper Treatment

Since measles is caused by a virus, antibiotics are ineffective. Misdiagnosing measles as scarlet fever may lead to unnecessary antibiotic use, which does nothing to treat the viral infection.

The patient’s condition may worsen as treatment for fever management and hydration is not in place.

On the other hand, as a bacterial infection requiring antibiotics, if scarlet fever is mistaken for measles, the necessary antibiotics may not be administered. This may lead to complications such as rheumatic fever or kidney disease.

 

Increased Risk of Measles Outbreaks

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases, so misdiagnosis can lead to missed containment opportunities. This may allow the virus to spread unchecked. Since scarlet fever is not as highly contagious, mistaking measles for scarlet fever can lead to relaxed isolation measures, increasing the risk of outbreaks in schools, day care centres and public spaces.

 

Potential for Severe Health Complications

Measles can lead to serious complications, especially in young children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals. These may  include:

• Pneumonia
• Encephalitis (brain inflammation)
• Blindness
• Severe dehydration and malnutrition

 

Scarlet fever, if left untreated, can also cause severe complications such as:

• Rheumatic heart disease
• Kidney infections
• Toxic shock syndrome

 

When doctors misdiagnose these illnesses, they risk allowing complications to progress which can lead to long-term health consequences.

 

Differences Between Measles and Scarlet Fever

Accurate diagnosis is essential for correct treatment. Some key differences include :

• Rash Appearance: Measles presents with a blotchy, flat rash that starts on the face, whereas scarlet fever’s rash has a rough texture and is most prominent in skin folds.
• Additional Symptoms: Measles causes Koplik spots in the mouth, while scarlet fever leads to a “strawberry tongue.”
• Fever Pattern: Measles is often accompanied by flu-like symptoms before the rash appears, while scarlet fever’s rash typically follows a sore throat.
• Lab Testing: Blood tests can confirm measles by detecting the virus, while throat cultures or rapid strep tests diagnose scarlet fever.

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When Misdiagnosis Becomes Medical Negligence

 

Not all diagnostic errors amount to medical negligence. To establish a valid claim, you will need to establish that you suffered actual harm that would not have occurred otherwise. This would include harm such as prolonged illness, complications and financial losses.

For example, if a doctor misdiagnosed measles as scarlet fever and prescribed antibiotics instead of recommending isolation and supportive care, the patient may have exposed others to infection, experienced severe complications, or suffered unnecessary side effects from inappropriate treatment.

 

Claiming Compensation for Misdiagnosis

It is important to gather your medical records and evidence of damages. First Personal Injury offers expert advice and support if you have been misdiagnosed or received a delayed diagnosis. We work with lawyers who operate on a No Win, No Fee basis.

Contact us today at 0333 358 2345 or complete our online contact form to arrange an initial, no-obligation consultation. We’re here to help you explore your options for pursuing a compensation claim.