Most of the timepharyngitis(sore throat) iscausedby viruses.
Strep throat is the most common bacterial cause of a sore throat.
It is responsible for 15 to 30% of cases in children and 5 to 10% in adults.
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Knowing about them can help you to decrease your risk of this infection.
Besides strep throat, other common infections caused byS.
Most people completely recover from PSG without long-term complications.
How Streptococcal Bacteria Spreads
S. pyogenesis most commonly spread from person to person.
Bacteria in salivary droplets or in nasal discharge can spread when you cough or sneeze.
You could inhale these respiratory droplets directly.
These droplets can also settle on surfaces.
The bacteria is less commonly transmitted through food or water.
Strep throat usually lasts three to seven days with or without treatment.
Some resources claim that infectivity could last as long as a week afterward.
Active Infection vs. Carrier State
Not allS.
pyogenesbacteria lead to an active infection.
Some people live with the bacteria in their pharynx and nasal passages and don’t develop symptoms.
These bacterial strains tend to be less virulent (harmful to the body).
These people are said to be colonized with the bacteria and are carriers of the disease.
As many as 20% of school-aged children fall into this group.
Carriers are less likely to spread disease.
It may also be a consideration if there are recurrent infections to other people within the same household.
pyogenes,but that prevalence decreased to only 24% for children younger than 5 years old.
Adults are infected at a much lower rate of 5 to 10%.
Regardless of age, strep throat is usuallytreatedwith antibiotics.
Close Contact
Close quarters make it more likely that infection will spread from person to person.
Schools and daycare centers are notorious for this.
People who live with someone who has strep throat are also at higher risk of infection.
Hygiene
Hygiene is a common culprit when it comes to the spread of strep infections.
Children may cough into their hands or rub their noses without using tissues.
pyogenescan live on the hands for up to three hours.
Hand washing is key to decreasing the spread of infection.
When soap and water are not available, consider alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
Also avoid sharing food, drinks, or utensils and kissing during an infection.
This leaves the throat prone to infection from strep and viruses.
Air pollution can do the same.
Time of Year
Strep throat can occur year-round, but it has seasonal variations.
Infections are more common in late winter and early spring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Genetics may be one reason, according to a 2019 study.
It’s possible, but not likely.
Strep throat is rare in children younger than 3 years old.
Contact your healthcare provider if you are concerned that your child may have strep throat.
Some symptoms that develop in young children include fever, fussiness, runny nose, and decreased appetite.
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