"Strep throat" is a bacterial infection caused by group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus.

Transmission
The strep bacteria are spread from person to person by droplets of infected secretions from the mouth and nose, through sneezing or coughing. A person with strep throat also can spread the organisms to others through shared drinking glasses or eating utensils.

Symptoms
A person with strep throat may have all, some, or none of the following symptoms:

• Sore throat
• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Nausea
• Headache
• General discomfort

These symptoms also may be part of a cold or other upper respiratory infection.

Treatment
An antibiotic is necessary - even if symptoms are mild or absent - to treat the infection and to prevent complications the strep bacteria can cause in other parts of the body (such as rheumatic fever and kidney disease). To minimize chances of these complications, the full course of antibiotic therapy must be taken, even if there are no longer symptoms.  

To help relieve symptoms:

• Over-the-counter pain medications may be taken
• Gargle with salt water several times a day, one-half teaspoon of salt to eight ounces of warm water
• Increase fluid intake to six to eight glasses of water a day
• Use anesthetic throat lozenges 
• Rest

Although a person with strep infection may feel much better in two to four days, the infection is not gone. If an antibiotic is prescribed for strep, it is extremely important to take it as prescribed on a regular schedule and to complete all of the medication. Return to your health care provider if you are not better in several days or if new symptoms develop.

To make an appointment at University Health Service, students may call (859) 323-APPT (2778).

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