Several cases of scarlet fever have been reported on the island and the government’s public health chiefs have issued some advice regarding the disease, which usually affects children.

Once thought of as a disease of Victorian times, scarlet fever has been making a comeback.

In the UK, cases of scarlet fever have reached a 50-year high, with numbers back to levels last seen in the 1960s.

It is an easily spread, bacterial illness and is usually mild - symptoms to look out for are sore throat, headache, fever and a fine, pinkish or red rash with a sandpapery feel.

A spokesman for the public health department said: ’It’s not uncommon for scarlet fever to circulate at this time of year. Information and advice is given to nurseries to share with staff and parents and includes a link to NHS Choices - scarlet fever.

’There is no vaccination against scarlet fever: the best way to reduce spread is to see a doctor as soon as scarlet fever is suspected. Treatment is with antibiotics, exclusion for 24 hours after starting antibiotics and effective hand washing and cleaning.’

Scarlet fever, also called scarlatina, is an infection that causes a blotchy, pink-red rash. It’s most common in young children, but can affect people of any age.

It isn’t usually serious and can be treated with antibiotics from a GP. Once you’ve had it, you’re unlikely to get it again.

The symptoms of scarlet fever develop within a week of being infected. Early signs include a sore throat, a headache, a high temperature (38.3C/101F or above), swollen glands in the neck and being sick. This may be followed by a rash on the body, a red face and a white or red tongue.

Early antibiotic treatment is important and can help reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia and the spread of the infection.

If you contract scarlet fever you should stay at home until at least 24 hours after the start of antibiotic treatment to avoid giving it to others.

For more information visit https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/scarlet-fever/