Streptococcal pharyngitis, commonly known as strep throat, is a bacterial infection in the throat and tonsils. The throat becomes inflamed and irritated and causes a sudden severe sore throat.

Strep throat is caused by streptococcal bacteria. The most common symptoms include:

• Swollen tonsils and lymph nodes
• Pain when swallowing
• Severe sore throat that comes on suddenly
• Fever over 101 F
• White or yellow spots on the back of the throat
• Bright red throat

Strep throat is very contagious and can be passed from person to person just by breathing. When a person comes into contact with the strep bacteria, it takes about 2-5 days before symptoms become noticeable.

Strep throat is usually treated with antibiotics which shortens the amount of time that people are contagious for. This lowers the risk of spreading the infection to other people.

To prevent contracting strep throat, try to decrease contact with people who have strep throat. If you come into contact with someone who has strep, make sure to wash your hands often, don’t share personal items such as drinking glasses, utensils or toothbrushes.