Scarlet fever is on the rise across Cumbria, with five cases recorded in the past week.

Almost all areas of the county have now had confirmed cases since the beginning of November - with a sharp rise in the past fortnight, according to Public Health England.

Scarlet fever is an infectious disease spread through close contact, and is most common between December and April.

As it is so contagious, particularly among children, parents are being warned to be on high alert for the signs - which include a characteristic pinkish/red sandpapery rash.

The most recent five cases, confirmed in the last week, were in Carlisle, Allerdale and South Lakeland.

The previous week there were four cases, three in the Carlisle district and one in Allerdale.

Barrow and Copeland have also had confirmed cases in recent weeks.

The latest five take the total number of confirmed cases in Cumbria since the beginning of November to 18.

Typically there are seasonal rises in scarlet fever.

The rash, which is typically on the chest or stomach but can spread across the body, usually appears within one to two days.

Other signs to look out for are sore throat, headache and fever.

Anyone worried about their children should contact their GP immediately as prompt antibiotic treatment is needed.

Children or adults diagnosed with scarlet fever should stay off school, nursery or work until at least 24 hours after the start of antibiotic treatment to avoid passing on the infection.

Doctors in England and Wales are obliged by law to notify the authorities of suspected cases of certain infectious diseases, of which scarlet fever is one.

Others include mumps, rubella and tuberculosis.

Scarlet fever - the facts

  • What are the symptoms of scarlet fever?

Symptoms of scarlet fever develop within a week of being infected.

Early signs include a sore throat, a headache, a high temperature (38.3C/101F or above), swollen glands in the neck and being sick.

This may be followed by a rash on the body, a red face and a white or red tongue.

  • What does the rash look like?

It usually starts on the chest or tummy, before spreading to other areas.

It is made up of pink-red blotches that may join up. It feels like sandpaper (this may be the most obvious sign in someone with dark skin).

It may be brightest red in body folds, such as the armpits or elbows.

It turns white if you press a glass on it.

  • What is the treatment for scarlet fever?

Your GP will prescribe antibiotic tablets (or liquid for young children) to take for five or 10 days.

You or your child should start feeling better after a day or two but make sure you finish the whole course of treatment.

  • How long is a patient contagious for?

Scarlet fever usually clears up within a week, although the skin may peel for a few weeks after the other symptoms have passed.

The infection is contagious from before the symptoms appear until 24 hours after starting antibiotic treatment or up to two or three weeks later if you don't take antibiotics.

  • What if I'm pregnant?

There's no evidence to suggest that getting scarlet fever during pregnancy will harm your baby.

But it can make you feel unwell, so it's best to avoid close contact with anyone who has it.

If you do get symptoms of scarlet fever, see your GP for treatment.

The antibiotics used for scarlet fever are usually safe to take during pregnancy.

  • How to help stop the infection spreading

Keep your child away from nursery or school for at least 24 hours after starting antibiotic treatment – adults should stay off work for at least 24 hours after starting treatment.

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze – throw away used tissues immediately.

Wash your hands with soap and water often, especially after using or disposing of tissues.

Avoid sharing utensils, cups and glasses, clothes, baths, bed linen, towels or toys.