Streptococcus (group A strep bacteria) cause strep throat and are contagious. Common symptoms include swelling, redness, and white patches. Learn more about the risk factors and symptoms of strep throat, and how to treat it.
Irritated Throat
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Strep Throat
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Left - Normal Throat, Right - Strep Throat
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Left - Normal Throat, Right - Strep Throat
Left - Normal Throat, Right - Strep Throat
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Strep Throat — Key Facts
Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by group A Streptococcus or "group A strep." In addition to a sore throat, symptoms can include pain when swallowing, a fever, red and swollen tonsils, tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth, or swollen lymph nodes in the front of the neck. Your doctor can do a quick strep test to see if group A strep bacteria are causing your sore throat. If the test is positive, your doctor can prescribe antibiotics. Antibiotics help you feel better sooner, prevent serious health problems, and help prevent spreading the infection to others.
Key Facts
Strep throat is an infection in the throat and tonsils caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria (called “group A strep”). However, viruses — not bacteria — cause most sore throats.
Group A strep bacteria spread through contact with droplets from an infected person’s cough or sneeze. If you touch your mouth, nose, or eyes after touching something that has these droplets on it, you may become ill.
No one, not even a doctor, can diagnose strep throat just by looking at your throat. Doctors can swab your throat to see if you have strep throat.
People with strep throat should stay home from work, school, or daycare until they no longer have a fever and have taken antibiotics for at least 12 hours.
Antibiotics taken for strep throat reduce your symptoms and the length of time you’re sick, prevent long-term health problems, and help prevent spreading the infection to friends and family members.
Prevention Tips
Wash your hands often.
Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
Do not drink from the same glass, eat from the same plate, or share utensils with someone who is sick.
If you have strep throat, stay home from work, school, or daycare until you no longer have a fever and have taken antibiotics for at least 12 hours. This will help keep others from getting sick.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Additional Materials (10)
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Strep Throat Causes Loss of Limbs?
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Group A Strep Infections and Associated Rhinitis
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STREPTOCOCCAL PHARYNGITIS, Causes, Signs and Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment.
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Strep Throat Turning into Scarlet Fever
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STREPTOCOCCAL PHARYNGITIS, Causes, Signs and Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment.
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What Is Strep Throat?
Streptococcus Pyogenes
Image by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Streptococcus Pyogenes
This scanning electron micrograph of Streptococcus pyogenes shows the characteristic cellular phenotype resembling chains of cocci.
Image by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Streptococcal Infections of the Throat
A common upper respiratory infection, streptococcal pharyngitis (strep throat) is caused by Streptococcus pyogenes. This gram-positive bacterium appears as chains of cocci, as seen below. Rebecca Lancefield serologically classified streptococci in the 1930s using carbohydrate antigens from the bacterial cell walls. S. pyogenes is the sole member of the Lancefield group A streptococci and is often referred to as GAS, or group A strep.
This scanning electron micrograph of Streptococcus pyogenes shows the characteristic cellular phenotype resembling chains of cocci. (credit: modification of work by U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Medical Illustrator)
Similar to streptococcal infections of the skin, the mucosal membranes of the pharynx are damaged by the release of a variety of exoenzymes and exotoxins by this extracellular pathogen. Many strains of S. pyogenes can degrade connective tissues by using hyaluronidase, collagenase and streptokinase. Streptokinase activates plasmin, which leads to degradation of fibrin and, in turn, dissolution of blood clots, which assists in the spread of the pathogen. Released toxins include streptolysins that can destroy red and white blood cells. The classic signs of streptococcal pharyngitis are a fever higher than 38 °C (100.4 °F); intense pharyngeal pain; erythema associated with pharyngeal inflammation; and swollen, dark-red palatine tonsils, often dotted with patches of pus; and petechiae (microcapillary hemorrhages) on the soft or hard palate (roof of the mouth) (Figure). The submandibular lymph nodes beneath the angle of the jaw are also often swollen during strep throat.
Some strains of group A streptococci produce erythrogenic toxin. This exotoxin is encoded by a temperate bacteriophage (bacterial virus) and is an example of phage conversion. The toxin attacks the plasma membranes of capillary endothelial cells and leads to scarlet fever (or scarlatina), a disseminated fine red rash on the skin, and strawberry tongue, a red rash on the tongue (Figure). Severe cases may even lead to streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS), which results from massive superantigen production that leads to septic shock and death.
S. pyogenes can be easily spread by direct contact or droplet transmission through coughing and sneezing. The disease can be diagnosed quickly using a rapid enzyme immunoassay for the group A antigen. However, due to a significant rate of false-negative results (up to 30%), culture identification is still the gold standard to confirm pharyngitis due to S. pyogenes. S. pyogenes can be identified as a catalase-negative, beta hemolytic bacterium that is susceptible to 0.04 units of bacitracin. Antibiotic resistance is limited for this bacterium, so most β-lactams remain effective; oral amoxicillin and intramuscular penicillin G are those most commonly prescribed.
Streptococcal infections of the respiratory tract may cause localized pharyngitis or systemic signs and symptoms. (a) The characteristic appearance of strep throat: bright red arches of inflammation with the presence of dark-red spots (petechiae). (b) Scarlet fever presents as a rash on the skin. (credit a: modification of work by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; credit b: modification of work by Alicia Williams)
Sequelae of S. pyogenes Infections
One reason strep throat infections are aggressively treated with antibiotics is because they can lead to serious sequelae, later clinical consequences of a primary infection. It is estimated that 1%–3% of untreated S. pyogenes infections can be followed by nonsuppurative (without the production of pus) sequelae that develop 1–3 weeks after the acute infection has resolved. Two such sequelae are acute rheumatic fever and acute glomerulonephritis.
Acute rheumatic fever can follow pharyngitis caused by specific rheumatogenic strains of S. pyogenes (strains 1, 3, 5, 6, and 18). Although the exact mechanism responsible for this sequela remains unclear, molecular mimicry between the M protein of rheumatogenic strains of S. pyogenes and heart tissue is thought to initiate the autoimmune attack. The most serious and lethal clinical manifestation of rheumatic fever is damage to and inflammation of the heart (carditis). Acute glomerulonephritis also results from an immune response to streptococcal antigens following pharyngitis and cutaneous infections. Acute glomerulonephritis develops within 6–10 days after pharyngitis, but can take up to 21 days after a cutaneous infection. Similar to acute rheumatic fever, there are strong associations between specific nephritogenic strains of S. pyogenes and acute glomerulonephritis, and evidence suggests a role for antigen mimicry and autoimmunity. However, the primary mechanism of acute glomerulonephritis appears to be the formation of immune complexes between S. pyogenes antigens and antibodies, and their deposition between endothelial cells of the glomeruli of kidney. Inflammatory response against the immune complexes leads to damage and inflammation of the glomeruli (glomerulonephritis).
Group A Streptococcus (GAS) – Infectious Diseases | Lecturio
Lecturio Medical/YouTube
Risk Factors
Inflamed Tonsils
Image by CDC
Inflamed Tonsils
This image depicts a close intraoral view of a child’s inflamed oropharynx, which also included the patient’s soft palate, as well as tonsillitis, all which had been caused by group A Streptococcus (GAS) bacteria. These bacteria are spread through direct contact with mucus from the nose or throat of persons, who are infected, or through contact with infected wounds, or sores on the skin.
Image by CDC
Children and Certain Adults Are at Increased Risk
Anyone can get strep throat, but there are some factors that can increase the risk of getting this common infection.
Strep throat is more common in children than adults. It is most common in children 5 through 15 years old. It is rare in children younger than 3 years old. Adults who are at increased risk for strep throat include:
Parents of school-aged children
Adults who are often in contact with children
Close contact with another person with strep throat is the most common risk factor for illness. For example, if someone has strep throat, it often spreads to other people in their household.
Infectious illnesses tend to spread wherever large groups of people gather together. Crowded conditions can increase the risk of getting a group A strep infection. These settings include:
Schools
Daycare centers
Military training facilities
Strep Throat: More Common in Children
Up to 3 in 10 children with a sore throat have strep throat
About 1 in 10 adults with a sore throat has strep throat
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Additional Materials (2)
Strep Throat in Kids
Video by Children's Health/YouTube
Strep Throat - Akron Children's Hospital video
Video by AkronChildrens/YouTube
2:08
Strep Throat in Kids
Children's Health/YouTube
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Strep Throat - Akron Children's Hospital video
AkronChildrens/YouTube
Causes
Streptococcus Pyogenes (Group A Strep)
Image by NIAID
Streptococcus Pyogenes (Group A Strep)
Colorized scanning electron micrograph of Group A Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes) bacteria (yellow) on human neutrophil (blue). Credit: NIAID
Image by NIAID
Causes of Strep Throat
Bacteria Cause Strep Throat
Viruses are the most common cause of a sore throat. However, strep throat is an infection in the throat and tonsils caused by bacteria called group A Streptococcus (group A strep).
How You Get Strep Throat
Group A strep live in the nose and throat and can easily spread to other people. It is important to know that some infected people do not have symptoms or seem sick. People who are infected spread the bacteria by coughing or sneezing, which creates small respiratory droplets that contain the bacteria.
People can get sick if they:
Breathe in those droplets
Touch something with droplets on it and then touch their mouth or nose
Drink from the same glass or eat from the same plate as a sick person
Touch sores on the skin caused by group A strep (impetigo)
Rarely, people can spread group A strep through food that is not handled properly. Experts do not believe pets or household items, like toys, spread these bacteria.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Additional Materials (2)
Strep Infections: The Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis | Merck Manual Consumer Version Quick Facts
Video by Merck Manuals/YouTube
Invasive Strep A cases on the rise
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2:06
Strep Infections: The Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis | Merck Manual Consumer Version Quick Facts
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Invasive Strep A cases on the rise
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Signs & Symptoms
Strep throat symptoms
Image by CDC
Strep throat symptoms
Swelling, redness, and white patches are common symptoms of strep throat.
Image by CDC
Pain and Fever Without a Cough Are Common Signs and Symptoms
In general, strep throat is a mild infection, but it can be very painful. The most common symptoms of strep throat include:
Sore throat that can start very quickly
Pain when swallowing
Fever
Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or streaks of pus
Tiny, red spots (petechiae — pronounced pi-TEE-kee-eye) on the roof of the mouth (the soft or hard palate)
Swollen lymph nodes in the front of the neck
Other symptoms may include a headache, stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting — especially in children. Someone with strep throat may also have a rash known as scarlet fever (also called scarlatina).
The following symptoms suggest a virus is the cause of the illness instead of strep throat:
Cough
Runny nose
Hoarseness (changes in your voice that makes it sound breathy, raspy, or strained)
Conjunctivitis (also called pink eye)
It usually takes two to five days for someone exposed to group A strep to become ill.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Additional Materials (3)
A sketch of an oropharynx with Streptococcus Pyogenes induced pharyngitis.
A sketch of an oropharynx with Streptococcus Pyogenes induced pharyngitis.
Image by Sam.bulloo
Strep throat (streptococcal pharyngitis)- pathophysciology, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, treatment
Video by Armando Hasudungan/YouTube
Pharyngitis | Respiratory system diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube
A sketch of an oropharynx with Streptococcus Pyogenes induced pharyngitis.
Sam.bulloo
7:39
Strep throat (streptococcal pharyngitis)- pathophysciology, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, treatment
Armando Hasudungan/YouTube
6:46
Pharyngitis | Respiratory system diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
khanacademymedicine/YouTube
Diagnosis
Strep throat
Image by James Heilman, MD
Strep throat
A culture positive case of strep throat with typical tonsillar exudate in an 8 year old.
Image by James Heilman, MD
A Simple Test Gives Fast Results
Only a rapid strep test or throat culture can determine if group A strep is the cause. A doctor cannot tell if someone has strep throat just by looking at his or her throat.
A rapid strep test involves swabbing the throat and running a test on the swab. The test quickly shows if group A strep is causing the illness. If the test is positive, doctors can prescribe antibiotics. If the test is negative, but a doctor still suspects strep throat, then the doctor can take a throat culture swab. A throat culture takes time to see if group A strep bacteria grow from the swab. While it takes more time, a throat culture sometimes finds infections that the rapid strep test misses. Culture is important to use in children and teens since they can get rheumatic fever from an untreated strep throat infection. For adults, it is usually not necessary to do a throat culture following a negative rapid strep test. Adults are generally not at risk of getting rheumatic fever following a strep throat infection.
Someone with strep throat should start feeling better in just a day or two after starting antibiotics. Call the doctor if you or your child are not feeling better after taking antibiotics for 48 hours.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Additional Materials (3)
Mayo Clinic Minute: Is your child’s sore throat actually strep throat?
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Strep Throat: LIVE DIAGNOSIS
Video by paulthomasmd - Dr. Paul/YouTube
Is It Strep Throat or Just a Sore Throat?
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1:01
Mayo Clinic Minute: Is your child’s sore throat actually strep throat?
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Strep Throat: LIVE DIAGNOSIS
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Is It Strep Throat or Just a Sore Throat?
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Rapid Strep Test
Rapid Strep Test
Also called: RST, Rapid Antigen Detection Test, RADT
A rapid strep test is used to quickly determine if group A strep is the cause of a sore throat, a condition termed "strep throat." Strep throat is most common in children 5 through 15 years old.
Rapid Strep Test
Also called: RST, Rapid Antigen Detection Test, RADT
A rapid strep test is used to quickly determine if group A strep is the cause of a sore throat, a condition termed "strep throat." Strep throat is most common in children 5 through 15 years old.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
Your result is Negative.
A negative result is normal and it means that strep bacteria were not found. However, if your doctor still suspects of a strep infection, a throat culture test may be also be ordered.
Related conditions
Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as group A streptococcus or simply group A strep, is the bacteria that causes "strep throat," which is the most common bacterial cause of sore throat. Anyone can get strep throat, however, it is most common in children between the ages of 5 and 15. It is rare in children younger than 3 years old.
Group A strep live in the nose and throat and can easily spread to other people by coughing or sneezing. It is important that these infections be promptly identified and treated with appropriate antibiotics.
A rapid strep test involves swabbing the throat and running a test on the swab. The test quickly shows if group A strep is causing the illness.
Your doctor may want to order this test if you have signs and symptoms of throat infection, such as:
Sore throat
Pain when swallowing
Swollen, red tonsils
Streaks of pus or white patches in your tonsils
Fever
Chills
Appetite loss
Enlarged lymph nodes in your neck
Headache
Nausea and vomiting
Neck stiffness
Your doctor may also want to order this test if you’ve been exposed to strep during an epidemic of rheumatic fever.
A sterile swab will be used to take a sample of pus or secretions from the back of your throat and tonsils. Results are usually available in less than 10 minutes.
No test preparation is needed. You should refrain from using mouthwash before the test is done.
You may feel a little bit of discomfort, gagging sensation, or an urge to vomit or cough during the procedure, which only takes a few seconds.
The rapid strep test result will come back as positive or negative. A positive result means that strep bacteria are present, whether from an active infection or from a carrier state (you carry the bacteria but it doesn’t mean that your sore throat is due to it). A negative result is normal and it means that strep bacteria were not found.
If the test is positive, doctors can prescribe antibiotics. If the test is negative, but a doctor still suspects strep throat, then the doctor can take a throat culture swab. A throat culture takes time to see if group A strep bacteria grow from the swab. While it takes more time, a throat culture sometimes finds infections that the rapid strep test misses. Culture is important to use in children and teens since they can get rheumatic fever from an untreated strep throat infection. For adults, it is usually not necessary to do a throat culture following a negative rapid strep test. Adults are generally not at risk of getting rheumatic fever following a strep throat infection.
A rapid strep test does not detect other causes of a sore throat, such as viruses, or other types of bacteria.
The rapid strep test helps minimize the use of unnecessary antibiotic treatment, therefore reducing the chance of bacterial resistance to antibiotics (which happens when a bacteria is no longer killed by an antibiotic that has been previously used).
Rapid Strep Test for Strep Throat | Michigan Medicine [accessed on Oct 02, 2018]
https://www.cdc.gov/groupastrep/diseases-public/strep-throat.html [accessed on Mar 03, 2019]
https://familydoctor.org/rapid-strep-test/?adfree=true [accessed on Mar 03, 2019]
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https://www.questdiagnostics.com/testcenter/TestDetail.action?ntc=10553 [accessed on Mar 03, 2019]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (19)
Streptococcus pyogenes
This photograph depicted a subsurface bacterial colony of a non-hemolytic S. pyogenes growing in a Petri dish filled with trypticase soy agar with 5% sheep’s blood, (BAP). A loop of diluted non-hemolytic S. pyogenes culture was put into the melted agar (50oC) just before the blood was added to the melted agar, which was then allowed to solidify. It was then incubated at 35oC for 24 hours in a normal atmosphere. There was only a very small color change in the region surrounding the colony indicating that a narrow zone of red blood cells in the medium had been altered, which meant that these bacteria were "narrow-zone"-hemolytic in nature. Among the streptococcal species this hemolytic activity is found only with "non-hemolytic GAS".
The true incidence of non-hemolytic GAS is unknown, but it is thought to be much less than that of the typical beta-hemolytic GAS. This bacterium is found in the throat and on the skin, and may be carried by people who have no symptoms of illness. Most GAS infections are relatively mild illnesses such as "strep throat", or impetigo. Rarely, these bacteria can cause severe and even life-threatening diseases. They're spread through direct contact with infected mucus from the nose or throat, or through contact with infected wounds or sores on the skin of persons who are symptomatic. Persons who are asymptomatic, but who carry the bacteria, are much less contagious. Treating an infected person with an antibiotic for 24hrs or longer generally eliminates their ability to spread the bacteria. However, it is important to complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed. It is not likely that household items like plates, cups, or toys spread these bacteria.
Image by CDC/ Richard R. Facklam, Ph.D.
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Strep Throat
Strep Throat, Test Positive A case of strep throat, culture positive. A strep throat infection causes a sore throat and is spread by person to person contact. Any age group can be affected but it is most common in children aged 5 to 15.
Image by James Heilman, MD/Wikimedia
Streptococcus pneumoniae
Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria in cerebral spinal fluid
Image by CDC
Streptococcus Pyogenes (Group A Strep)
Colorized scanning electron micrograph of Group A Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes) bacteria (yellow) on human neutrophil (blue). Credit: NIAID
Image by NIAID
Scarlet Fever
Video by DrER.tv/YouTube
How to treat a sore throat | NHS
Video by NHS/YouTube
Strep Throat Explained Simply
Video by DoctorSecrets/YouTube
StrepThroat
Video by Focus Medica/YouTube
Strep Throat: LIVE DIAGNOSIS
Video by paulthomasmd - Dr. Paul/YouTube
Streptococcal pharyngitis
Video by uncpichi/YouTube
Infant Cough & What You Need To Know (Ages 0-3) | Dr. Paul
Video by paulthomasmd - Dr. Paul/YouTube
Strep Throat in Kids
Video by Children's Health/YouTube
Streptococcus pyogenes
This illustration depicts a photomicrograph of a specimen revealing numbers of chain linked Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria.
Image by CDC
Streptococcus pyogenes
Magnified 100x, this 1977 photograph depicted a Petri dish filled with trypticase soy agar medium, containing 5% defibrinated sheep's blood. After having been inoculated with Group A Streptococcus pyogenes (GAS) bacteria, using a wire loop stab technique, the blood agar plate (BAP) was incubated in a carbon dioxide enriched atmosphere at 35oC for 24-hours. The culture grew bacterial colonies along the edge of the stab, a number of which were seen here. The characteristic color changes, including a light colored halo surrounding each colony, indicated that these bacteria were beta-hemolytic in nature.
Image by CDC/ Richard R. Facklam, Ph.D.
Strep throat
A culture positive case of strep throat with typical tonsillar exudate in an 8 year old.
Image by James Heilman, MD
Strep throat
This image depicts an intraoral view of a patient, who had presented to a clinical setting exhibiting redness and edema of the oropharynx, and petechiae, or small red spots, on the soft palate. A diagnosis of strep throat had been made, caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria. These bacteria are spread through direct contact with mucus from the nose or throat, of persons who are infected, or through contact with infected wounds, or sores on the skin.
Image by CDC/ Heinz F. Eichenwald, MD
Strep throat
White splotches typical of strep throat.
Image by Mp3car/Wikimedia
Strep Throat - Causes and Spread
A throat infected with group A streptococcus.
Image by James Heilman, MD
Scarlet Fever Rash
Red cheeks and pale area around the mouth in scarlet fever
Image by Estreya at English Wikipedia, Modified by Grook Da Oger
Streptococcus pyogenes
CDC/ Richard R. Facklam, Ph.D.
Sensitive content
This media may include sensitive content
Strep Throat
James Heilman, MD/Wikimedia
Streptococcus pneumoniae
CDC
Streptococcus Pyogenes (Group A Strep)
NIAID
4:27
Scarlet Fever
DrER.tv/YouTube
2:00
How to treat a sore throat | NHS
NHS/YouTube
3:22
Strep Throat Explained Simply
DoctorSecrets/YouTube
0:27
StrepThroat
Focus Medica/YouTube
6:38
Strep Throat: LIVE DIAGNOSIS
paulthomasmd - Dr. Paul/YouTube
9:01
Streptococcal pharyngitis
uncpichi/YouTube
4:41
Infant Cough & What You Need To Know (Ages 0-3) | Dr. Paul
paulthomasmd - Dr. Paul/YouTube
2:08
Strep Throat in Kids
Children's Health/YouTube
Streptococcus pyogenes
CDC
Streptococcus pyogenes
CDC/ Richard R. Facklam, Ph.D.
Strep throat
James Heilman, MD
Strep throat
CDC/ Heinz F. Eichenwald, MD
Strep throat
Mp3car/Wikimedia
Strep Throat - Causes and Spread
James Heilman, MD
Scarlet Fever Rash
Estreya at English Wikipedia, Modified by Grook Da Oger
Strep A Test
Strep A Test
Also called: Streptococcal screen, Group A beta hemolytic streptococcus, Group A streptococcus (GAS), Streptococcus pyogenes
Strep A is a type of bacteria that causes strep throat and other infections. A strep A test is most often used to diagnose strep throat. Strep throat can cause serious complications if not treated with antibiotics.
Strep A Test
Also called: Streptococcal screen, Group A beta hemolytic streptococcus, Group A streptococcus (GAS), Streptococcus pyogenes
Strep A is a type of bacteria that causes strep throat and other infections. A strep A test is most often used to diagnose strep throat. Strep throat can cause serious complications if not treated with antibiotics.
Strep A, also known as group A strep, is a type of bacteria that causes strep throat and other infections. Strep throat is an infection that affects the throat and tonsils. The infection is spread from person to person through coughing or sneezing. While you can get strep throat at any age, it's most common in children 5 to 15 years old.
Strep throat can be easily treated with antibiotics. But left untreated, strep throat can lead to serious complications. These include rheumatic fever, a disease that can damage the heart and joints, and glomerulonephritis, a type of kidney disease.
Strep A tests check for strep A infections. There are two types of strep A tests:
Rapid strep test. This test looks for antigens to strep A. Antigens are substances that cause an immune response. A rapid strep test can provide results in 10–20 minutes. If a rapid test is negative, but your provider thinks you or your child has strep throat, he or she may order a throat culture.
Throat culture. This test looks for strep A bacteria. It provides a more accurate diagnosis than a rapid test, but it can take 24–48 hours to get results.
A strep A test is most often used to find out if a sore throat and other symptoms are being caused by strep throat or by a viral infection. Strep throat needs to be treated with antibiotics to prevent complications. Most sore throats are caused by viruses. Antibiotics don't work on viral infections. Viral sore throats usually go away on their own.
Your health care provider may order a strep A test if you or your child has symptoms of strep throat. These include:
A sudden and severe sore throat
Pain or difficulty swallowing
Fever of 101° or more
Swollen lymph nodes
Your provider may also order a strep A test if you or your child has a rough, red rash that starts on the face and spreads to another part of the body. This type of rash is a sign of scarlet fever, an illness that can happen a few days after you've been infected with strep A. Like strep throat, scarlet fever is easily treated with antibiotics.
If you have symptoms such as a cough or runny nose along with your sore throat, it's more likely that you have a viral infection rather than strep throat.
A rapid test and a throat culture are done in the same way. During the procedure:
You will be asked to tilt your head back and open your mouth as wide as possible.
Your health care provider will use a tongue depressor to hold down your tongue.
He or she will use a special swab to take a sample from the back of your throat and tonsils.
The sample may be used to do a rapid strep test in the provider's office. Sometimes the sample is sent to a lab.
Your provider may take a second sample and send it to a lab for a throat culture if necessary.
You don't any special preparations for a rapid strep test or a throat culture.
There is no risk to having swab tests, but they may cause slight discomfort and/or gagging.
If you or your child has a positive result on a rapid strep test, it means you have strep throat or another strep A infection. No further testing will be needed.
If the rapid test was negative, but the provider thinks you or your child might have strep throat, he or she may order a throat culture. If you or your child has not already provided a sample, you will get another swab test.
If the throat culture was positive, it means you or your child has strep throat or other strep infection.
If the throat culture was negative, it means your symptoms are not being caused by strep A bacteria. Your provider will probably order more tests to help make a diagnosis.
If you or your child was diagnosed with strep throat, you will need to take antibiotics for 10 to 14 days. After a day or two of taking the medicine, you or your child should start to feel better. Most people are no longer contagious after taking antibiotics for 24 hours. But it's important to take all the medicine as prescribed. Stopping early can lead to rheumatic fever or other serious complications.
If you have questions about your results or your child's results, talk to your health care provider.
Strep A can cause other infections besides strep throat. These infections are less common than strep throat but are often more serious. They include toxic shock syndrome and necrotizing fasciitis, also known as flesh-eating bacteria.
There are also other kinds of strep bacteria. These include strep B, which can cause a dangerous infection in newborns, and streptococcus pneumoniae, which causes the most common type of pneumonia. Streptococcus pneumonia bacteria can also cause infections of the ear, sinuses, and bloodstream.
Additional Materials (1)
Streptococcus pyogenes
Photomicrograph of Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, 900x Mag.
A pus specimen, viewed using Pappenheim's stain. Last century, infections by S. pyogenes claimed many lives especially since the organism was the most important cause of puerperal fever and scarlet fever. Streptococci
Image by
Photo Credit:
Content Providers(s):
/Wikimedia
Streptococcus pyogenes
Photo Credit:
Content Providers(s):
/Wikimedia
Throat Culture
Throat Culture
Also called: Throat culture and sensitivity, Throat swab, Oropharyngeal swab, OP swab
A throat culture, also called throat swab, is a test that is done to identify the specific type of bacteria or other germs causing the infection in your throat, so that proper treatment can be initiated.
Throat Culture
Also called: Throat culture and sensitivity, Throat swab, Oropharyngeal swab, OP swab
A throat culture, also called throat swab, is a test that is done to identify the specific type of bacteria or other germs causing the infection in your throat, so that proper treatment can be initiated.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
Your result is Negative.
A negative result is normal. It means that no harmful bacteria or other germs were found in your throat secretions.
Related conditions
A throat culture is a test where a sample of pus or secretions from your throat is collected and then added to a substance that promotes germ growth.
This is useful to determine whether you have a bacterial throat infection, and if that’s the case, detect and identify the specific microorganism that is causing the infection.
This test also helps minimize the use of unnecessary antibiotic treatment, therefore reducing the chance of bacterial resistance to antibiotics (which happens when a bacteria is no longer killed by an antibiotic that has been previously used).
Your doctor may want to order this test if you have signs and symptoms of throat infection, such as:
Sore throat
Pain when swallowing
Swollen, red tonsils
Streaks of pus or white patches in your tonsils
Fever
Chills
Appetite loss
Enlarged lymph nodes in your neck
Headache
Nausea and vomiting
Neck stiffness
A sterile swab will be used to take a sample of pus or secretions from the back of your throat and tonsils, avoiding the tongue.
No test preparation is needed. You should refrain from using mouthwash before the test is done.
You may feel a little bit of discomfort, gagging sensation, or an urge to vomit or cough during the procedure, which only takes a few seconds.
The throat culture test result will come back as positive or negative.
A negative result will only report the presence of “normal respiratory flora,” or it will read something like “no growth seen in 3 days”.
A positive result will report the name the bacteria that is the causal agent of the infection.
This test is not commonly ordered to diagnose strep throat infection because results are not usually available until 24 to 48 hours later. In this case, another test called rapid antigen test is preferred.
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003746.htm [accessed on Mar 03, 2019]
https://www.labcorp.com/test-menu/36296/upper-respiratory-culture-routine [accessed on Mar 03, 2019]
https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/childrens-hospital/general-peds/throat-culture.aspx [accessed on Mar 03, 2019]
https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=167&contentid=beta_hemolytic_streptococcus_culture [accessed on Mar 03, 2019]
https://www.questdiagnostics.com/testcenter/TestDetail.action?ntc=394 [accessed on Mar 03, 2019]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (4)
How to perform a throat swab on a patient
Video by Medscape/YouTube
Completing a Throat Culture & Rapid Strep Test
Video by Jessica Le/YouTube
Is It Strep Throat or Just a Sore Throat?
Video by Cleveland Clinic/YouTube
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Strep Throat
Strep Throat, Test Positive A case of strep throat, culture positive. A strep throat infection causes a sore throat and is spread by person to person contact. Any age group can be affected but it is most common in children aged 5 to 15.
Image by James Heilman, MD/Wikimedia
0:44
How to perform a throat swab on a patient
Medscape/YouTube
5:07
Completing a Throat Culture & Rapid Strep Test
Jessica Le/YouTube
0:39
Is It Strep Throat or Just a Sore Throat?
Cleveland Clinic/YouTube
Sensitive content
This media may include sensitive content
Strep Throat
James Heilman, MD/Wikimedia
Antistreptolysin O Antibodies Test
Antistreptolysin O Antibodies Test
Also called: ASO titer, ASLO, Strep Antistreptolysin O Titer
The Antistreptolysin O (ASO) titer is a blood test used to detect antibodies the body produces in response to streptolysin O, a toxin released by group A Streptococcus bacteria. The presence of these antibodies suggests a recent or past infection, such as strep throat.
Antistreptolysin O Antibodies Test
Also called: ASO titer, ASLO, Strep Antistreptolysin O Titer
The Antistreptolysin O (ASO) titer is a blood test used to detect antibodies the body produces in response to streptolysin O, a toxin released by group A Streptococcus bacteria. The presence of these antibodies suggests a recent or past infection, such as strep throat.
The Antistreptolysin O (ASO) titer is a blood test used to detect antibodies the body produces in response to streptolysin O, a toxin released by group A Streptococcus bacteria. The presence of these antibodies suggests a recent or past infection, such as strep throat. If untreated, group A Streptococcus infections can progress to more severe complications, including rheumatic fever, which primarily affects children between the ages of 5 and 15.
A blood sample is needed.
DO NOT eat for 6 hours before the test.
Some illnesses caused by these bacteria are:
Bacterial endocarditis an infection of the inner lining of your heart
Streptococcal glomerulonephritis: A kidney disorder
Rheumatic fever, which can affect the heart, joints, or bones
Scarlet fever
Strep throat
Impetigo: A contagious skin infection
Toxic shock syndrome
Cellulitis and necrotizing fasciitis (flesh-eating disease)
Test results can vary based on factors like age, gender, health history, and the lab conducting the test. A negative ASO titer result means no antibodies to group A Streptococcus were found in your blood, but since it takes time for antibody levels to rise, a second test may be needed 2 to 4 weeks after the first.
A positive result indicates the presence of antibodies, suggesting a recent strep infection, even if you had no symptoms. However, the ASO test may not always detect an antibody increase in certain conditions, such as rheumatic fever, meaning additional tests may be required. Since normal value ranges can vary slightly, discussing your specific results with your healthcare provider is important.
Additional Materials (6)
Antistreptolysin O (ASO) titer for Streptococcus pyogenes (Rheumatic Fever, APSGN) | Nephro | Labs
Video by Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube
ASO Titer Test / Anti Streptolysin O Blood Test - Normal range and Interpretataion
Video by Interpret Your Lab Tests/YouTube
Streptococcus pyogenes
Under a magnification of 900X, this illustration depicts a photomicrograph of a pus specimen, viewed using Pappenheim's stain, revealing numbers of chain linked Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria.
Image by CDC
Streptococcus Pyogenes (Group A Strep)
Colorized scanning electron micrograph of Group A Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes) bacteria (blue) and a human neutrophil (purple).
Image by NIAID
Streptococcus Pyogenes (Group A Strep)
Creative rendition of Group A Streptococcus bacteria. Based on 3D print models that were created using a scanning electron micrograph image as reference (see 3dprint.nih.gov/discover/3DPX-004652). Note: not to scale.
Image by NIAID
Streptococcus pyogenes
Magnified 100x, this 1977 photograph depicted a Petri dish filled with trypticase soy agar medium, containing 5% defibrinated sheep's blood. After having been inoculated by streaking the surface with Group A Streptococcus pyogenes (GAS) bacteria, the dish was incubated in a carbon dioxide enriched atmosphere at 35oC for 24 hours. The characteristic color changes, including a light colored halo surrounding each colony, indicated that these bacteria were beta-hemolytic in nature.
Image by CDC/ Richard R. Facklam, Ph.D.
9:41
Antistreptolysin O (ASO) titer for Streptococcus pyogenes (Rheumatic Fever, APSGN) | Nephro | Labs
Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube
3:32
ASO Titer Test / Anti Streptolysin O Blood Test - Normal range and Interpretataion
Interpret Your Lab Tests/YouTube
Streptococcus pyogenes
CDC
Streptococcus Pyogenes (Group A Strep)
NIAID
Streptococcus Pyogenes (Group A Strep)
NIAID
Streptococcus pyogenes
CDC/ Richard R. Facklam, Ph.D.
Treatment
Bottle of Doxycycline
Image by NIAID
Bottle of Doxycycline
Capsules of the antibiotic doxycycline spill from a medication bottle. Oral antibiotics, such as doxycycline or amoxicillin, are often prescribed after exposure to tickborne Lyme disease.
Image by NIAID
Antibiotics Get You Well Fast
Doctors treat strep throat with antibiotics. Either penicillin or amoxicillin are recommended as a first choice for people who are not allergic to penicillin. Doctors can use other antibiotics to treat strep throat in people who are allergic to penicillin.
Benefits of antibiotics include:
Decreasing how long someone is sick
Decreasing symptoms (feeling better)
Preventing the bacteria from spreading to others
Preventing serious complications like rheumatic fever
Someone who tests positive for strep throat but has no symptoms (called a “carrier”) usually does not need antibiotics. They are less likely to spread the bacteria to others and very unlikely to get complications. If a carrier gets a sore throat illness caused by a virus, the rapid strep test can be positive. In these cases it can be hard to know what is causing the sore throat. If someone keeps getting a sore throat after taking the right antibiotics, they may be a strep carrier and have a viral throat infection. Talk to a doctor if you think you or your child may be a strep carrier.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Additional Materials (2)
Strep throat (streptococcal pharyngitis)- pathophysciology, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, treatment
Video by Armando Hasudungan/YouTube
Antibiotic Awareness: Sore Throat or Pharyngitis
Video by Washington State Department of Health/YouTube
7:39
Strep throat (streptococcal pharyngitis)- pathophysciology, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, treatment
Armando Hasudungan/YouTube
2:03
Antibiotic Awareness: Sore Throat or Pharyngitis
Washington State Department of Health/YouTube
Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin
Also called: Amoxil®, Biomox®, Moxatag®, Trimox®
H. pylori infection and duodenal ulcer disease.
Amoxicillin
Also called: Amoxil®, Biomox®, Moxatag®, Trimox®
H. pylori infection and duodenal ulcer disease.
Amoxicillin is a penicillin-class antibiotic used to treat mild-to-moderate infections caused by susceptible bacteria, such as (but not limited to) Escherichia coli, Hemophilis influenzae, Listeria monocytogenesis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Proteus mirabilis, Salmonella, Shigella, Staphylococcus aureus (non-penicillinase producing), Staphyloccocus epidermidis, and Streptococcus pneumoniae. It treats infections of the:
Ear, nose, and throat
Genitourinary tract
Skin and skin structure
Lower respiratory tract
It is also used in combination for treatment of H. pylori infection and duodenal ulcer disease.
To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of amoxicillin and other antibacterial drugs, amoxicillin should be used only to treat infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by bacteria.
Do not take amoxicillin if you:
are allergic to amoxicillin, penicillins, cephalosporins or any of the other ingredients of this medicine.
have ever had a severe allergic (hypersensitive) reaction to any other antibiotic. This can include a skin rash or swelling of the face or neck.
have ever had liver problems or jaundice (yellowing of the skin) when taking an antibiotic.
Do not take amoxicillin if any of the above apply to you. If you are not sure, talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist before taking amoxicillin.
Before you take amoxicillin, tell your healthcare provider if you:
Have glandular fever (infectious mononucleosis)
Are being treated for liver or kidney problems
Are not passing water regularly (infrequent urination)
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Especially tell your healthcare provider if you are taking:
Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them and show your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.
Take amoxicillin according to your health care provider’s instructions. Your health care provider will tell you how much amoxicillin to take and when to take it. Before you start amoxicillin and each time you get a refill, read any printed information that comes with your medicine.
Amoxicillin can make some existing conditions worse, or cause serious side effects. These include allergic reactions, convulsions and inflammation of the large intestine. You must look out for certain symptoms while you are taking amoxicilline, to reduce the risk of any problems.
Serious side effects include:
Allergic reactions:
Skin rash
Inflammation of blood vessels (vasculitis) which may be visible as red or purple raised spots on the skin, but can affect other parts of the body
Fever, joint pain, swollen glands in the neck, armpit or groin
Swelling, sometimes of the face or mouth (angioedema), causing difficulty in breathing
Collapse Contact a doctor immediately if you get any of these symptoms. Stop taking amoxicillin.
Inflammation of large intestine:
Inflammation of the large intestine, causing watery diarrhoea usually with blood and mucus, stomach pain and/or fever. Contact your doctor as soon as possible for advice if you get these symptoms.
Common side effects includes diarrhea, rash, vomiting, and nausea.
These are not all the possible side effects of amoxicillin. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
LABEL: AMOXICILLIN- amoxicillin tablet, film coated [accessed on Nov 13, 2018]
LABEL: AMOXICILLIN- amoxicillin capsule AMOXICILLIN- amoxicillin tablet, film coated AMOXICILLIN- amoxicillin powder, for suspension [accessed on Oct 28, 2018]
https://livertox.nlm.nih.gov/Amoxicillin.htm [accessed on Jan 28, 2019]
http://www.mhra.gov.uk/home/groups/spcpil/documents/spcpil/con1516339402434.pdf [accessed on Jan 28, 2019]
Amoxicillin. MedlinePlus/AHFS® Drug Information. [accessed on Oct 28, 2018]
These FAQs provide a summary of the most important information about Amoxicillin. If you would like more information or have any questions, talk to your healthcare provider.
Additional Materials (8)
Amoxicillin 875 mg side effects
Video by Pharmacist Tips/YouTube
Amoxicillin with milk, is it ok with dairy products
Novamoxin Prescription Drug - Amoxicillin Trihydrate (H-6) 500 mg
Image by Bmramon at English Wikipedia
How did they make penicillin?
For many years, scientists knew that certain molds killed some bacteria. However, researchers needed to understand how to harness this antibacterial microbe and to manufacture enough of the substance before they could make a useful medicine.
1. Penicillium mold naturally produces the antibiotic penicillin.
2. Scientists learned to grow Penicillium mold in deep fermentation tanks by adding a kind of sugar and other ingredients. This process increased the growth of Penicillium.
3. Then, scientists separated the penicillin product from the mold.
4. Finally, penicillin is purified for use as an antibiotic medicine.
Image by NLM/From DNA to Beer: Harnessing Nature in Medicine & Industry.
2:19
Amoxicillin 875 mg side effects
Pharmacist Tips/YouTube
1:56
Amoxicillin with milk, is it ok with dairy products
NLM/From DNA to Beer: Harnessing Nature in Medicine & Industry.
Penicillin V Potassium
Penicillin V Potassium
Also called: Penicillin VK
Penicillin V potassium is an antibiotic that can treat a number of mild-to-severe infections caused by susceptible organisms including (but not limited to) staphylococci (except penicillinase-producing strains), streptococci (groups A, C, G, H, L, and M), and pneumococci.
Penicillin V Potassium
Also called: Penicillin VK
Penicillin V potassium is an antibiotic that can treat a number of mild-to-severe infections caused by susceptible organisms including (but not limited to) staphylococci (except penicillinase-producing strains), streptococci (groups A, C, G, H, L, and M), and pneumococci.
Penicillin V potassium, the potassium salt of penicillin V, is an antibiotic that can treat a number of mild-to-severe infections caused by susceptible organisms including (but not limited to) streptococcal infections and pneumonia, enterococcal and non-enterococcal endocarditis, diphtheria, anthrax, bacterial meningitis, Lyme disease, gonorrhea, syphilis, actinomycosis, botulism and others.
The following infections will usually respond to adequate dosage of penicillin V:
Mild-to-moderate infections of the upper respiratory tract, scarlet fever, and mild erysipelas caused by streptococcal infections (without bacteremia). Streptococci in groups A, C, G, H, L, and M are very sensitive to penicillin. Other groups, including group D (enterococcus), are resistant.
Mild to moderately severe infections of the respiratory tract caused by pneumococcal infections.
Mild infections of the skin and soft tissues caused by staphylococcal infections—penicillin G-sensitive.
Mild to moderately severe infections of the oropharynx usually respond to therapy with oral penicillin caused by Fusospirochetosis (Vincent's gingivitis and pharyngitis).
For the prevention of recurrence following rheumatic fever and/or chorea: Prophylaxis with oral penicillin on a continuing basis has proven effective in preventing recurrence of these conditions.
For the prophylaxis against bacterial endocarditis in patients who have congenital heart disease or rheumatic or other acquired valvular heart disease when they undergo dental procedures and surgical procedures of the upper respiratory tract.
Severe pneumonia, empyema, bacteremia, pericarditis, meningitis, and arthritis should not be treated with penicillin V during the acute stage.
To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of penicillin V potassium and other antibacterial drugs, penicillin V potassium should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by bacteria.
Do not take penicillin V potassium if you have a previous hypersensitivity reaction to any penicillin.
Before you take penicillin V potassium, tell your healthcare provider if you:
have or have ever had allergies and/or asthma
are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while taking penicillin V potassium, call your healthcare provider.
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Take penicillin V potassium according to your health care provider’s instructions. Your health care provider will tell you how much penicillin V potassium to take and when to take it. Before you start penicillin V potassium and each time you get a refill, read any printed information that comes with your medicine.
Penicillin V potassium may cause serious side effects, including diarrhea from C-diff (Clostridium difficile) infection.
The most common reactions to oral penicillin are nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, diarrhea, and black hairy tongue. The hypersensitivity reactions reported are skin eruptions (maculopapular to exfoliative dermatitis), urticaria and other serum-sicknesslike reactions, laryngeal edema, and anaphylaxis.
Fever and eosinophilia may frequently be the only reaction observed. Hemolytic anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, neuropathy, and nephropathy are infrequent reactions and usually associated with high doses of parenteral penicillin (given by injection).
These are not all the possible side effects of penicillin V potassium. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Store tablets at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). Keep tightly closed.
Store dry powder at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). Keep tightly closed. After reconstitution, solution must be stored in a refrigerator. Discard any unused portion after 14 days.
Keep penicillin V potassium and all medicines out of the reach of children.
LABEL: PENICILLIN V POTASSIUM- penicillin v potassium tablet PENICILLIN V POTASSIUM- penicillin v potassium powder, for solution [accessed on Jan 10, 2019]
Penicillin G and V. LIVERTOX®. U.S. National Library of Medicine. [accessed on Jan 10, 2019]
Penicillin V Potassium. MedlinePlus/AHFS® Drug Information. [accessed on Oct 29, 2018]
These FAQs provide a summary of the most important information about Penicillin V Potassium. The drug should not be used for a condition other than that for which it is prescribed. Do not give it to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them. If you would like more information or have any questions, talk to your healthcare provider.
Additional Materials (9)
Penicillin
Bacteria that attempt to grow and divide in the presence of penicillin fail to do so, and instead end up shedding their cell walls. Diagram depicting the failure of bacterial cell division in the presence of a cell wall synthesis inhibitor (e.g. penicillin, vancomycin).
Image by Mcstrother
Microbiology - Antibiotics Mechanisms of Action
Video by Armando Hasudungan/YouTube
The miracle of penicillin (1940s) | NHS
Video by NHS/YouTube
Myths About Antibiotics: Healthcare Triage #11
Video by Healthcare Triage/YouTube
What is antibiotics? Chemistry Calendar, October: Health
Video by MoleCluesTV/YouTube
How antibiotics work
Video by eBug Website/YouTube
How Much Are Antibiotics Used in Your Meat?
Video by Seeker/YouTube
Antibiotics are Overused
Video by Healthcare Triage/YouTube
Penicillin and Antibiotic Resistance (from PDB-101)
Video by RCSBProteinDataBank/YouTube
Penicillin
Mcstrother
7:17
Microbiology - Antibiotics Mechanisms of Action
Armando Hasudungan/YouTube
5:57
The miracle of penicillin (1940s) | NHS
NHS/YouTube
5:29
Myths About Antibiotics: Healthcare Triage #11
Healthcare Triage/YouTube
6:11
What is antibiotics? Chemistry Calendar, October: Health
MoleCluesTV/YouTube
2:46
How antibiotics work
eBug Website/YouTube
3:38
How Much Are Antibiotics Used in Your Meat?
Seeker/YouTube
5:27
Antibiotics are Overused
Healthcare Triage/YouTube
6:00
Penicillin and Antibiotic Resistance (from PDB-101)
RCSBProteinDataBank/YouTube
Complications
Adult and Child inner ear and ear infection
Image by TheVisualMD
Adult and Child inner ear and ear infection
Adult and Child inner ear and ear infection
Image by TheVisualMD
Serious Complications Are Not Common but Can Happen
Complications can occur after a strep throat infection. This can happen if the bacteria spread to other parts of the body. Complications can include:
Abscesses (pockets of pus) around the tonsils
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
Sinus infections
Ear infections
Rheumatic fever (a heart disease)
Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (a kidney disease)
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Additional Materials (4)
Two Signs of Strep
Video by Lee Health/YouTube
Are antibiotics needed for a sinus infection?
Video by Pediatrics Northwest/YouTube
Rheumatic fever & heart disease - an Osmosis Preview
Video by Osmosis/YouTube
Lymph Nodes & Swollen Glands - Andrew Alexander, MD
Video by DocsTalk/YouTube
1:52
Two Signs of Strep
Lee Health/YouTube
2:31
Are antibiotics needed for a sinus infection?
Pediatrics Northwest/YouTube
0:54
Rheumatic fever & heart disease - an Osmosis Preview
Osmosis/YouTube
4:15
Lymph Nodes & Swollen Glands - Andrew Alexander, MD
DocsTalk/YouTube
Prevention
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Spreading knowledge, fighting germs
Image by Photo by: Amn Michaela R. Slanchik | VIRIN: 180409-F-VN530-006.JPG; www.airforcemedicine.af.mil
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Spreading knowledge, fighting germs
A toddler at the Child Development Center gets a “germ inspection” after washing her hands at McConnell Air Force Base, Kan., April 3, 2018. In honor of National Public Health Week, medical technicians instructed children how to properly wash their hands and prevent spreading germs. (U.S. Air Force photo by Amn Michaela R. Slanchik)
Image by Photo by: Amn Michaela R. Slanchik | VIRIN: 180409-F-VN530-006.JPG; www.airforcemedicine.af.mil
Sore Throat: Protect Yourself and Others
Protect Yourself and Others
People can get strep throat more than once. Having strep throat does not protect someone from getting it again in the future. While there is no vaccine to prevent strep throat, there are things people can do to protect themselves and others.
Good Hygiene Helps Prevent Group A Strep Infections
The best way to keep from getting or spreading group A strep is to wash your hands often. This is especially important after coughing or sneezing and before preparing foods or eating. To practice good hygiene, you should:
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze
Put your used tissue in the waste basket
Cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow, not your hands, if you don’t have a tissue
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
Use an alcohol-based hand rub if soap and water are not available
You should also wash glasses, utensils, and plates after someone who is sick uses them. These items are safe for others to use once washed.
Wash your hands often to help prevent germs from spreading.
Antibiotics Help Prevent Spreading the Infection to Others
People with strep throat should stay home from work, school, or daycare until they:
No longer have a fever
AND
Have taken antibiotics for at least 12 hours
Take the prescription exactly as the doctor says to. Don’t stop taking the medicine, even if you or your child feel better, unless the doctor says to stop.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Additional Materials (5)
Strep Throat
Video by Best Docs Network/YouTube
Strep Throat - Akron Children's Hospital video
Video by AkronChildrens/YouTube
Proper Hand Hygiene with Dr. Diana Chen | UCLA Health
Video by UCLA Health/YouTube
Why is Hand Hygiene so important?
Video by NIH Clinical Center/YouTube
Hand Hygiene Saves Lives
Video by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube
1:14
Strep Throat
Best Docs Network/YouTube
2:42
Strep Throat - Akron Children's Hospital video
AkronChildrens/YouTube
1:01
Proper Hand Hygiene with Dr. Diana Chen | UCLA Health
UCLA Health/YouTube
2:18
Why is Hand Hygiene so important?
NIH Clinical Center/YouTube
5:12
Hand Hygiene Saves Lives
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube
Send this HealthJournal to your friends or across your social medias.
Strep Throat
Streptococcus (group A strep bacteria) cause strep throat and are contagious. Common symptoms include swelling, redness, and white patches. Learn more about the risk factors and symptoms of strep throat, and how to treat it.