Rheumatic Fever Week is marked on 5 – 9 August to educate and make health workers and members of the public aware of the problems of Rheumatic Fever, common causes and risks, complications, management and prevention.

Rheumatic fever is a serious immune disease that affects different areas of the body, including the joints, heart, skin, nervous system, and brain. Rheumatic fever may develop after a serious infection with streptococcus bacteria, especially strep throat.

Treatment of Rheumatic Fever

There is no actual cure for rheumatic fever but medication can be provided to alleviate the pain caused by some of the symptoms. Recurrent occurrence of the streptococcal infection can be prevented by administering penicillin to the patient. Aspirin is usually given to reduce fever and sometimes, corticosteroids are given to the patient to combat joint pain and swelling.