Strep throat

• Sudden sore throat, often severe
• Painful swallowing
• Fever (101°F or higher)
• Tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth (petechiae)
• Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or streaks of pus
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting (especially in younger children)
• Body aches

Strep throat is caused by a type of bacteria called Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as Group A Streptococcus (GAS).

Strep throat accounts for approximately 20-30% of sore throats in children ages 5-15, translating to millions of cases annually. According to the CDC, group A Streptococcus causes approximately 5-15% of sore throats in adults but up to 30% in school-aged children. Peak season is late fall through early spring.

Strep throat is treated with antibiotics prescribed by a doctor, which are crucial to prevent complications like rheumatic fever. Ensure your child completes the entire course of antibiotics, even if they feel better, to fully eliminate the bacteria. Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage fever and throat pain.

To prevent the spread of strep throat, encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing and before eating. Teach your child to cover their mouth and nose when they cough or sneeze, and avoid sharing eating utensils, cups, and food with others. Keep your child home from school or daycare until they have been on antibiotics for at least 24 hours and their fever has subsided.

Track Strep throat and other illnesses at your child's school in real time.