Parents warned after increase in scarlet fever cases

Parents are being warned about the dangers of scarlet fever, after an increase in cases in the north west of England.

From September 2016 to the end of January 2017, there have been 546 cases in the north west, compared to 500 in the same period last year.

Public Health England (PHE) has urged parents to be vigilant, and to take their child to the GP if they suspect scarlet fever.

The bacterial illness mainly affects children and is distinctive due to its pink-red rash.

It is highly contagious and should be treated with antibiotics.