What is the primary treatment for Rheumatic fever?

The primary treatment for rheumatic fever involves antibiotics, specifically penicillin, to eradicate any residual group A Streptococcus infection, as the condition is a post-streptococcal sequela. This is crucial for both alleviating symptoms and preventing the recurrence of rheumatic fever and its associated complications, such as rheumatic heart disease.

Strict bed rest may be recommended in certain acute cases of rheumatic fever, particularly to manage symptoms such as carditis, where heart involvement is present. However, it is not considered the primary treatment modality. The management of rheumatic fever focuses significantly on antibiotic therapy alongside supportive care, which may include bed rest depending on the severity and specific clinical manifestations. Surgical intervention is not typically necessary unless there are severe complications requiring it, such as significant valvular damage requiring repair or replacement. Vaccination is not a treatment for existing rheumatic fever but is instead part of preventive strategies against group A Streptococcus infections.