Rheumatic fever is a disease characterized by the inflammation of many connective tissues throughout the body, particularly in the heart, joints and central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord). The condition is the result of infection with Group A streptococcus bacteria, such as in strep throat or scarlet fever. It usually affects children between the ages of 6 and 15.

Rheumatic fever can cause fever, severe joint pain and fatigue. Although these symptoms are temporary, rheumatic fever can also damage the heart’s valves, chambers and vessels. Untreated, this damage can be permanent (rheumatic heart disease). There is also a high likelihood of rheumatic fever developing again, and people who develop rheumatic faver usually need to take prophylactic antibiotics for the rest of their life to avoid additional complications.