HALIBURTON, KAWARTHA, PINE RIDGE DISTRICT HEALTH UNIT
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE CONTROL DEPARTMENT
Strep Throat
What is it?
Strep throat is an infection caused by the Group A Streptococci bacteria.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of strep throat include a sudden onset of fever, tonsillitis or pharyngitis (sore throat), with
tender, enlarged lymph nodes. On inspection, the throat may appear red and swollen. Other symptoms can
include: headache, chills, rash, malaise (general unwell feeling, loss of appetite, difficulty swallowing, nausea
and stomach pain.
Who is at risk?
Everyone is at risk of developing strep throat. The strep bacteria may colonize the throats of individuals
(carriers) without symptoms and my be passed from person to person. Children between the ages of six to 12
are most often affected.
When do symptoms start?
Symptoms usually start one to three days after coming into contact with the bacteria.
When is it contagious?
Strep throat can be contagious for as long as 10 to 21 days, if left untreated. If adequately treated, it usually is
not contagious after 24 hours of treatment.
How does it spread?
Strep throat is spread from person to person through saliva, sneezing/coughing and also through the mucous
of an infected person. It can also be spread by indirect contact with objects that have been touched by
infected people.
How is it treated?
Strep throat is treated with antibiotics. If you suspect you or your child may have strep throat, please contact
your health care provider.
How can infection be prevented?
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze with a tissue or your sleeve and encourage others to do the
same.
• Wash your hands after handling nose and throat discharges (i.e. after disposal of facial tissues containing
nose discharges).
• Avoid sharing anything that touches your mouth (i.e. eating utensils, straws, lipstick).
• Reduce person-to-person contact with those who have symptoms.
What do I do if I get sick with strep throat?
• If you or your child has a fever, they should be kept out of work/daycare/school until the fever resolves.
• If you or your child begins to develop symptoms, see your health care provider.
• Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Avoid acidic beverages such as orange juice, lemonade, etc. as
these can irritate a sore throat.
• Finish antibiotics as prescribed, even if feeling better.
• Twenty-four hours after antibiotics have been started, you are no longer considered contagious and can
return to work, school or daycare.
CD-429
O: 2012-06
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