CASES of scarlet fever have more than doubled in the south, according to new research from Public Health England.

PHE’s latest report showed hundreds of people in Dorset, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight have been infected with the disease this year already.

The Wessex region had one of the steepest increases in cases in England between September and March; rising more than two-and-a-half times from 119 last year to 302 for the same period this year.

Figures also revealed a total of 1265 new cases of scarlet fever were reported in the first six weeks of this year, including 300 in the first week of January and more than 750 in the first week of March.

Scarlet fever is a seasonal disease and this is the time of year when the highest numbers of cases are typically seen, but last year saw the highest number of cases across the year since the 1960s - more than 14,000 - instead of the average of up to 4,000.

Dr Theresa Lamagni, PHE’s head of streptococcal infection surveillance, said: “We’re continuing to see a considerable increase in the number of people diagnosed with scarlet fever across England - confirming this is the second season in a row with exceptionally high numbers.

"Close monitoring, rapid and decisive response to potential outbreaks and early treatment of scarlet fever with antibiotics remains essential, especially given the potential complications associated with group A streptococcal infections.

“Parents can play a key role in recognising when their child needs to be seen by their GP.

"Early signs to look out for are sore throat, headache and fever with the characteristic pink sandpaper-y rash appearing within a day or two, typically on the chest and stomach but then spreading to other parts of the body.

"GPs as well as schools and nurseries should be mindful of the current high levels of scarlet fever and promptly inform local health protection teams if they become aware of cases, especially if more than one child is affected.

Individuals who think they or their child may have scarlet fever should see their GP without delay, as antibiotic treatment is needed if diagnosed.