PARENTS in East Lancashire have been encouraged to be aware of the symptoms of scarlet fever.

The condition is a seasonal bacterial illness that is common at this time of year, which mainly affects children and is easily treated with antibiotics.

Symptoms include a sore throat, fever and rash and parents have been asked to contact their GP or NHS 111 if they spot symptoms or have concerns.

The latest report by Public Health England (PHE) shows that 9,887 cases of scarlet fever have been reported since mid-September last year.

This compares to an average of 14,128 for the same period over the last five years.

Dr Theresa Lamagni, senior epidemiologist at Public Health England, said: "National levels of scarlet fever this season have remained relatively low compared to the past 5 seasons.

"We continue to advise parents to look out for the symptoms such as a sore throat, fever and rash, and to contact their GP or NHS 111 if they spot symptoms or have concerns.

"Scarlet fever, which mainly affects young children, is not usually a serious illness and can be easily treated with appropriate antibiotics."