Strep throat
Also called: streptococcal pharyngitis
A bacterial infection that may cause a sore, scratchy throat.
- Spreads in various ways
- Treatable by a medical professional
- Requires a medical diagnosis
- Lab tests or imaging often required
- Short-term: resolves within days to weeks
The infection is generally transmitted by direct contact with the mucus or sores of someone else with strep.
Very common: More than 3 million US cases per year
Consult a doctor for medical advice
Sources: Mayo Clinic and others. Learn more
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Strep throat is a type of sore throat that is most common in children.
Strep throat is a bacterial infection that can make your throat feel sore and scratchy. Strep throat accounts for only a small portion of sore throats.
Learn more about the symptoms, causes and treatment of this throat bacterial infection in children and adults.
Strep throat is a common cause of sore throat in kids and teens. It usually requires treatment with antibiotics, but improves in a few days.
Dec 20, 2022 · Strep throat is an infection in your throat and tonsils caused by a type of bacteria called group A Streptococcus (group A strep).