Sore Throat 

What is strep throat?

Strep throat is a common and highly contagious infection caused by “streptococcal bacteria.” The bacteria cause swelling and inflammation of the mucous membranes that cover the back of the throat and tonsils. It is most prevalent in school-aged children and teenagers, between ages 5 and 15. It spreads through airborne droplets that are transmitted when an infected individual coughs or sneezes. It can also be spread through sharing drinks and food or by touching an infected surface, such as a doorknob or handrail, and then touching your face. Strep throat can occur at any time but it usually circulates in late fall and early spring.

What are symptoms of strep throat?

The most common symptoms of strep are:

Painful swallowing

Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with pus

Red spots on at the back of the roof of the mouth

Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

Fever

Headache

Body aches

Only a strep test can confirm a diagnosis. Viruses, allergies, and other bacterial infections can also cause sore throats. Exposure to secondhand cigarette smoke can also cause throat soreness, especially in young children.