Which of the following is NOT a feature of scarlet fever?

Scarlet fever is a bacterial illness that is typically caused by group A Streptococcus, often following strep throat. The condition is characterized by a set of specific symptoms that help in identifying it.

Fever is a key feature of scarlet fever, as it usually presents with a high fever. The appearance of strawberry tongue, which is characterized by a red and bumpy tongue, is another classic sign associated with the condition, often occurring alongside the characteristic rash. Cervical lymphadenopathy, which involves swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck, is also commonly observed in patients with scarlet fever due to the body's immune response to the infection.

Coughing, however, is not a primary feature of scarlet fever. While some patients may experience mild respiratory symptoms, a significant cough is typically associated with upper respiratory infections or other illnesses rather than being a direct symptom of scarlet fever itself. Therefore, recognizing the symptoms that are intrinsically linked to scarlet fever helps differentiate it from other conditions.