Scarlet fever is a highly contagious infectious disease, especially common in children. The disease spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets released into the air by coughing or sneezing. Infection can occur by inhaling these droplets or by touching surfaces contaminated with bacteria and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes. An important point is that some infected individuals can transmit the disease to others even if they show no symptoms. Scarlet fever bacteria spread easily in close-contact settings such as schools, workplaces, public transport, and other crowded environments.