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London 22-Year-Old Diagnosed With Scarlet Fever After Gig, Recovers With Antibiotics

Her account underscores NHS advice to seek care quickly for flu-like symptoms followed by a sandpaper-like rash.

Overview

  • Indigo Duffy developed a burning sore throat after a hot, crowded Brixton gig, then days later noticed a rapidly spreading, stinging rash.
  • At Kingston Hospital A&E, doctors confirmed scarlet fever and prescribed a week-long course of antibiotics, after which she recovered.
  • She reported very dry, peeling skin on her legs for two weeks after the rash resolved and is sharing her experience to raise awareness.
  • UKHSA reported 12,176 scarlet fever cases in England between January 1 and March 24, 2024, higher than the five-year average for that period.
  • NHS guidance says the illness often starts with fever and sore throat before a rough, sandpaper-like rash appears, and timely antibiotics usually prevent rare complications.