Strep throat is a common bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as Group A Streptococcus. This infection primarily affects the throat and tonsils, leading to symptoms like a sore throat, fever, and difficulty swallowing. Strep throat is highly contagious, making it important to know when an infected person is no longer contagious.
When Strep Throat Stops Being Contagious With Treatment
When strep throat is diagnosed and treated with appropriate antibiotics, such as penicillin or amoxicillin, individuals generally become non-contagious within 24 hours of starting the medication. This allows individuals to return to their normal activities, like school or work, typically after 24 hours of treatment and when their fever has subsided.
It is important to complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve quickly, which often occurs within one to two days. Finishing the full 10-day antibiotic regimen ensures the complete eradication of the bacteria from the body. This practice helps prevent the infection from returning and reduces the risk of serious complications.
When Strep Throat Stops Being Contagious Without Treatment
If strep throat is not treated with antibiotics, an infected individual can remain contagious for an extended period, often for two to three weeks, or even longer. The bacteria can continue to spread to others, even if the person’s symptoms begin to subside.
Untreated strep throat carries health risks beyond prolonged contagiousness. It can lead to serious complications, including acute rheumatic fever, which can cause inflammation and permanent damage to the heart, joints, and brain. Another possible complication is post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, an inflammation of the kidneys. These severe outcomes highlight the importance of seeking medical attention.
How to Prevent Spreading Strep Throat
Preventing the spread of strep throat involves several measures, as the bacteria transmit through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, and direct contact.
- Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water is an effective way to remove bacteria and prevent transmission. When soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used.
- Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or into the elbow helps contain respiratory droplets, preventing them from entering the air or landing on surfaces.
- Avoiding the sharing of personal items like eating utensils, cups, and food also reduces the risk of bacterial transfer.
- Regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces in homes and shared spaces, such as doorknobs and countertops, can further limit the spread of the bacteria.
- Staying home from school or work during the initial contagious period, especially for the first 24 hours after starting antibiotics, helps protect others.