Strep Throat
Strep throat is a throat infection caused by group A streptococcus bacteria. It is very common among children and teens. Symptoms may include: fever, red and white patches in the throat, headache, stomach ache, red and enlarged tonsils, loss of appetite, nausea and rash. If you suspect your child may have strep throat, schedule an appointment with your child's pediatrician. It is diagnosed by performing a rapid strep test and/or throat culture. The treatment is a 10 day course of antibiotics. Usually after 24 hours on the antibiotic, your child will no longer be contagious. By the second or third day on the antibiotic, the symptoms should start improving. It is very important that your child finish the antibiotic prescription. If you stop the antibiotic too soon, bacteria can remain in the throat and the symptoms can return.
Prevent the Spread of Strep Throat
Here are some tips to prevent the spread of strep throat to others in your home:
- Keep his/her eating utensils, dishes, and drinking glasses separate
- Wash them in hot soapy water after each use
- Don't allow your child to share food, drinks, napkins or towels
- Make sure your child covers his/her nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing
- Good hand washing
- Throw out toothbrush and buy a new one
- If your child's fever persists for 3 days while on antibiotics
- If your child is drooling or having difficulty swallowing
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