Strep throat is a common bacterial infection affecting the throat and tonsils, caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria (Streptococcus pyogenes). It leads to inflammation and a sore throat, which can be painful. While prevalent across all age groups, it is particularly common in school-aged children.
How Strep Throat Spreads
Strep throat is highly contagious, primarily spreading through direct contact with respiratory droplets from an infected individual. These droplets become airborne when a person with strep throat coughs, sneezes, or even talks. Other individuals can then inhale these droplets or come into contact with surfaces where the droplets have landed, subsequently transferring the bacteria to their nose or mouth.
Close contact, such as kissing, sharing eating utensils, or drinking from the same glass, directly transmits Group A Streptococcus bacteria. The bacteria reside in the nose and throat, so activities involving saliva exchange spread the infection. Even individuals who carry the bacteria without symptoms can transmit the infection, though symptomatic individuals are generally more contagious.
Recognizing Strep Throat
Symptoms of strep throat develop within two to five days after exposure to the bacteria. Throat pain that comes on quickly, often with painful swallowing, is a key indicator. Tonsils may appear red and swollen, sometimes exhibiting white patches, spots, or streaks of pus.
Other common signs include fever, headache, and swollen, tender lymph nodes in the neck. Tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth, known as petechiae, can also be present. Less common symptoms, particularly in children, may include nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain. A doctor’s visit and specific tests are necessary for accurate diagnosis, as symptoms can overlap with viral infections that do not respond to antibiotics. Rapid strep tests detect the bacteria within minutes, and a throat culture may confirm results, though it takes longer.
Preventing Transmission and Seeking Care
Preventing strep throat spread involves practicing good hygiene. Frequent handwashing with soap and water is important, especially after coughing or sneezing. Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or into the elbow helps contain respiratory droplets. Avoiding sharing personal items like food, drinks, or eating utensils also reduces transmission risk.
Avoid close contact, including kissing, with individuals who have strep throat until they are no longer contagious. Seek medical attention for a persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, or a fever. Antibiotic treatment alleviates symptoms, prevents complications like rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation, and reduces contagiousness. An infected person is typically no longer contagious after 24 to 48 hours of antibiotic treatment, though completing the entire prescribed course of medication is important.