What is strep throat, what are the symptoms, can it be treated with antibiotics and is it contagious?

SORE throats can be very painful, but unfortunately are quite common.

Here’s everything you need to know about strep throat, which is a frequent throat infection.

What is strep throat?

Strep throat is the shortened term for streptococcal pharyngitis, which is an infection at the back of the throat and tonsils.

It is responsible for 15 to 40 per cent of sore throats among children, and five to 15 per cent among adults.

Outbreaks often occur in late winter and early spring, but it is a risk all year round.

Although it’s an unpleasant condition, it’s usually not dangerous and there are ways to easing symptoms.

Common symptoms include pus on the tonsils

What are the symptoms?

The typical signs and symptoms include:

• Sore throat
• Fever above 38C
• Pus on the tonsils

However, people can also suffer from headaches, nausea, or vomiting in some cases.

Symptoms begin one to three days after initial exposure, and last seven to ten days.

Can it be treated with antibiotics?

It can be cleared up faster with antibiotics, and are normally prescribed if your doctor is concerned that it may turn into something more dangerous, such as rheumatic fever.

Antibiotics decrease the duration of symptoms to around one day, and also make you less contagious.

Over the counter pain killers such as paracetamol are also recommended to ease symptoms.

Other ways to soothe your throat are gargling salt water, keeping hydrated, rest, and eating cool and soft foods, such as ice cream.

Is it contagious?

Strep throat can be spread from person to person by respiratory droplets.

By touching the droplets of an infected person and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes, you are at risk of catching strep throat.

The likelihood of catching it can be reduced by washing hands regularly, and not sharing utensils to eat with.