Strep throat is inflammation of the throat, tonsils and lymph nodes due to infection with group A streptococcus bacteria. Strep throat is very common during the flu seasons and it can be preceded by mild symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing or cough. The incubation period of strep throat is around 3-5 days and most symptoms occur within this period of time. Common symptoms of strep throat are: throat inflammation and swelling, difficult swallowing, difficult breathing, mucus-producing cough, fatigue, body weakness, headache, nausea, poor appetite, enlargement of the lymph nodes and tonsils, excessive sweating and fever.

Strep throat is very contagious and the bacteria responsible for causing the illness can be easily transmitted from a person to another by direct touch, sneezing or coughing. In order to prevent infection with streptococcus bacteria, it is very important to maintain proper personal hygiene and to avoid entering in contact with infected people. The persons affected by strep throat should also take measures in avoiding spreading the bacteria to others.

Untreated strep throat can lead to serious complications and doctors usually recommend a course of antibiotics to most people affected by strep throat. With appropriate medical treatment, the illness can be overcome quickly, minimizing the risk of developing complications.

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