Can You Give Yourself Strep Throat?
The direct answer to whether you can spontaneously give yourself strep throat is no. This infection is caused by a specific type of bacteria that must be acquired from an an external source, such as another person. The presence of this particular bacterium is necessary for the infection to develop.
The Bacterial Cause
Strep throat is caused by a bacterium known as Streptococcus pyogenes, often referred to as Group A Streptococcus or GAS. This specific pathogen is responsible for the infection, distinguishing it from other types of sore throats, which are frequently caused by viruses. The infection leads to inflammation in the throat and tonsils, resulting in discomfort.
How Strep Throat Truly Spreads
Strep throat primarily spreads through person-to-person contact, often via respiratory droplets. When an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or talks, tiny droplets containing the bacteria can be released into the air. Other people can then inhale these droplets, leading to infection. Direct contact with an infected person’s secretions, such as from a runny nose, also facilitates transmission.
The bacteria can also spread indirectly by touching surfaces or objects contaminated with these droplets. If someone then touches their mouth, nose, or eyes after contact with a contaminated surface, they can transfer the bacteria to themselves. Sharing personal items like drinking glasses or eating utensils can also transmit the bacteria.
Understanding Self-Reinfection
While you cannot spontaneously generate strep throat, it is possible to experience recurring infections, which might seem like “self-infection.” One reason for re-infection is incomplete treatment of a prior strep throat episode. If antibiotics are not finished as prescribed, some bacteria may persist and multiply, leading to a relapse of symptoms. This situation means the original bacteria were not fully eradicated, allowing the infection to return.
Another scenario involves being an asymptomatic carrier of the bacteria. Some individuals can harbor Streptococcus pyogenes in their throat without showing symptoms, yet they can still spread the bacteria to others or potentially re-infect themselves. Poor hygiene can contribute to this, especially if the bacteria from a previous infection are still present in one’s environment. Contaminated personal items, such as a toothbrush, can also lead to re-exposure if the bacteria were not eliminated after the initial infection.
Preventing Transmission
Preventing the spread of strep throat involves adopting several hygienic practices. Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water is a primary defense against the bacteria. When soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used. Avoiding the sharing of eating utensils, cups, and other personal items is also important to limit bacterial transmission.
Practicing respiratory etiquette, such as covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or the elbow, helps contain respiratory droplets. Regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, like doorknobs and tabletops, can reduce the presence of lingering bacteria. If diagnosed with strep throat, completing the full course of prescribed antibiotics is important to prevent re-infection and reduce the duration of contagiousness. Seeking medical attention is advisable for a sore throat accompanied by symptoms like a fever, swollen lymph glands, or a rash, especially if symptoms last longer than 48 hours.