strep throat

Which microorganism causes strep throat?

The cause of strep throat is bacteria known as Streptococcus, it is highly contagious.

What is the reservoir for strep throat?

Humans, especially children, are the natural reservoir for strep throat.

How is strep throat transmitted?

It can be spread through airborne droplets when someone with strep coughs or sneezes or if they share food or drinks with someone.

What are the portals of entry and exit for strep throat?

Portal of entry - an opening in the skin or in the mouth and stays in throat. Portal of exit- usually transmitted by close contact with the saliva or nasal secretions from an infected individual. Typically in the form of airborne respiratory droplets.

What is the host for strep throat?

Pyogenes, an exclusively human pathogen.

Is strep a bacteria, virus, protozoa, fungus, rickettsiae or helminth?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection.

What are the signs and symptoms of strep throat?

Throat pain that usually comes on quickly, painful swallowing, red and swollen tonsils, tiny red spots on the area at the back of the roof of the mouth, swollen tender lymph nodes in your neck, fever, headache, rash.

Can you treat strep throat? How?

Yes, an amoxicillin or penicillin is recommended as first choice of antibiotics when treating strep.

How can you prevent strep? What can you do to break the links in the chain of infection?

You can prevent strep by washing your hands consistently, covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and not sharing personal items.