Strep Throat

Also known as: group A streptococcal infection.

What is strep throat?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the neck and throat. It’s common among children and is contagious.

What causes strep throat?

The group A streptococcus bacteria is the cause of strep throat. People can develop the disease by being exposed to fluids or saliva from an infected person through coughs, sneezes or contaminated surfaces.

What are the symptoms of strep throat?

A sore throat, pain when swallowing and a tender neck are the telltale signs of strep throat. People may also get a fever, chills, a headache or nausea.

What are strep throat care options?

Antibiotics can typically cure strep throat within a few days. Warm liquids, gargling with warm salt water, breathing humidified air, over-the-counter pain relievers and throat lozenges are all viable strategies to help with symptoms of strep throat.

Reviewed by: Yamilet Tirado, MD

This page was last updated on: March 07, 2023 01:51 PM