Scarlet fever, gout and whooping cough in the UK: Symptoms of Victorian-era diseases

According to the latest research, Victorian diseases could be on the rise in the UK. Research by the Labor Party has revealed that the number of hospital admissions for four major diseases of the Victorian era has increased by more than 50% over the past eight years. Scarlet fever experienced the largest increase in hospital admissions, from 429 in 2010/2011 to 1,321 in 2017/18, an increase of 208%. Pertussis and malnutrition increased by more than 50% during this period. Gout increased by 38%.

Scarlet fever

Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection that primarily affects young children, the NHS said.

It is caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes, which is commonly found in the skin and throat.

Common symptoms of early scarlet fever include development of a sore throat, headache and a high fever.

Some patients also have redness of the cheeks and swollen tongue.

Over the next few days, a distinct rash of scarlet fever may appear. The rash is usually pink in color and begins at the level of the chest and stomach before spreading to other parts of the body.

The rash may look rough, like sand paper, and itchy.

whooping cough

Pertussis is a bacterial infection of the lungs and respiratory tract, also called whooping cough.

The infection can last between two and three months and the symptoms may initially look like a cold.

About a week later, intense coughing fits can last for a few minutes. These can be more common at night.

Coughing can cause thick mucus and vomiting, warned the NHS.

You may be out of breath between coughs – hence the name "whooping cough".

Drop

Gout is a form of arthritis causing severe and sudden joint pain.

It can affect any joint, but is most common at the big toe, fingers, wrists, elbows or knees.

In the UK, between one and two people in 100 are affected by gout.

You may be at risk of gout if you experience severe pain in one or more joints and if the joint is very hot to the touch.

This could also result in swelling in and around the affected joint, as well as a layer of red and shiny skin.