What You Need to Know About Strep Throat: Causes and Symptoms
Published: Oct 25, 2023
Strep throat is a common condition caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria. Understanding its causes and symptoms can help you manage and prevent it effectively.
Contents
What Causes Strep Throat?
Strep throat is primarily caused by the bacteria known as Group A Streptococcus (GAS). This bacteria can spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Close contact settings like schools and daycare centers are common places where the infection spreads.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Symptoms of strep throat typically include a sudden, severe sore throat and pain when swallowing. Other signs can include fever, red and swollen tonsils, and white patches or streaks of pus on the tonsils. It is important to distinguish these symptoms from viral infections that may present similarly.
Who Is at Risk?
Children, especially those aged 5 to 15, are most commonly affected by strep throat. Those in close-contact environments like schools are at higher risk. Adults can also get strep throat, particularly if they are in close contact with children or in crowded settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Strep throat is caused by Group A Streptococcus (GAS).
It spreads through respiratory droplets from infected individuals.
Common symptoms include a severe sore throat and fever.
Children aged 5 to 15 are most at risk.
Key Takeaways
Understanding the causes and symptoms of strep throat is key to managing its spread.
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References
Efstratiou A, Lamagni T. Epidemiology of Streptococcus pyogenes.
Schwartz RH, Wientzen RL Jr, Pedreira F, et al. Penicillin V for group A streptococcal pharyngotonsillitis.
Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.