Strep Testing

What is strep throat?

Strep throat is a common and highly contagious infection caused by “streptococcal bacteria.” This bacteria causes swelling and inflammation of the mucous membranes that cover the back of the throat and tonsils. It’s most prevalent in school-aged children and teenagers, between ages 5-15. Strep accounts for an estimated 15%-40% of sore throat cases in the United States annually.

What are the symptoms of strep throat?

The most common symptoms of strep are:

• Painful swallowing
• Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with pus
• Red spots on the back of the roof of the mouth
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Fever
• Headache
• Body aches

Similar symptoms can be experienced with sore throats caused by viruses, which are not strep. Only a strep test can confirm a diagnosis.

How is strep throat caught?

Streptococcal bacteria are extremely contagious. 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.

Are antibiotics always prescribed for a sore throat?

No. Antibiotics will not help if a sore throat is caused by a virus rather than a bacterial infection. The most common type of sore throat caused by a bacterial infection is strep throat. Patients receive a strep test for an accurate diagnosis. Those who test positive are prescribed antibiotics, which usually work quite quickly in wiping out the infection.  

What are other causes of sore throats?

Sore throats can be caused by viruses, allergies, and other bacterial infections. Exposure to secondhand cigarette smoke can also cause throat soreness, especially in young children.