Strep throat

Strep throat in children

Strep throat is a contagious illness that is caused by infection with bacteria called group A Streptococcus. These bacteria are also the common cause of other infections, such as pneumonia, meningitis and skin infections.

The bacteria that cause strep throat tend to be present in a child’s nose, mouth and throat, so they can spread easily through coughing and sneezing.  It’s most often seen in children and teenagers because they are more likely to come in close contact with one another.

Symptoms of strep throat usually occur a few days after infection and may include sore throat, fever, swollen tonsils, stomach pain and headache.  Although strep throat can usually get better on its own, the illness is treated with antibiotics to prevent complications and the spread of infection. Strep throat is a bacterial infection, so it is treated with antibiotics. 

The best way to prevent strep throat is by washing hands frequently, covering your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing and avoiding sharing utensils, dishes and food with other people.