Number of scarlet fever cases highest in decade

Czechia recorded the highest number of scarlet fever cases in a decade in 2023, according to the newly released data by the State Institute of Health. The number of people infected with scabies and legionnaire disease increased at a similar rate. The new data also show an increase in the incidence of diphtheria and whooping cough.

Nearly 7,000 people were diagnosed with scarlet fever last year, compared to 1,150 in 2021. Experts attribute the significant increase to low population immunity following the Covid-19 pandemic.

An increased incidence of scarlet fever, caused by group A streptococcus, is also being reported in other European countries. The most effective antibiotic against the infection is penicillin.