HUNDREDS of schools across the county have been put on a high alert after the number of scarlet fever cases more than doubled in Hampshire.

Public Health England South East (PHESE) confirmed that in January and February alone this year there were 470 incidents reported of the condition, which mainly affects children aged between five and 15.

Now health chiefs have contacted schools warning them to look out for scarlet fever cases.

Councillor Dave Shields, Southampton City Council cabinet member for health and community safety, warned the rising numbers were likely linked to “rising poverty and deprivation” and that “it was a disease more commonly associated with the Victorian ages before the NHS”.

The figures show that by this point in 2017 there had been 185 cases of the condition, and 151 the previous year.

PHESE said it was aware of an increase in cases in Hampshire and reminded schools and nurseries across the county of the signs to be aware of.

Dr Anand Fernandes, consultant in communicable disease for PHESE, added: “Any child suspected of having scarlet fever should see their GP, take a course of antibiotics as prescribed and stay off nursery or school for at least 24 hours after starting treatment to avoid spreading the infection.

“Although scarlet fever is usually a mild illness, children who have had chickenpox recently can on rare occasions develop more serious symptoms.”

Symptoms of scarlet fever usually include a sore throat, headache and fever with a characteristic sand-papery, fine, pinkish or red rash.

It is not uncommon in the winter and spring, but in recent years there has been a noticeable increase in cases. The reason for the current increase in numbers is not clear, but it is possible that greater awareness and improved reporting practices may have contributed to this increase.

Cllr Shields said that as there is no vaccine for the disease it was difficult for cures to be handed out.

He said: “It is a disease we thought we were rid of and is something we more commonly associate with the Victorian era-before the NHS.

“There does seem to be a trend for these cases coming back across the country throughout the last five years and it is something we need to keep an eye on.”

Cllr Shields added: “There is probably a link to poverty and deprivation... the disease is coming back and it perhaps shows a widening in inequality and austerity, that’s the worry.

“This is a time to encourage people to get in touch with their GP because they are now much more aware of the condition and will report it on.”