Strep Throat Overview

Overview of Strep Throat

Strep throat (also called Streptococcal pharyngitis) is inflammation of the throat resulting from a bacterial infection. Strep throat is common in school-aged children. Onset usually is sudden and the condition often is diagnosed based on clinical symptoms and a positive throat culture for Streptococcus bacteria.

There are two types of Streptococcus bacteria: group A and group B. Group A Streptococci (GAS) is more common. This type causes strep throat, as well as skin infections (e.g., impetigo, cellulitis), scarlet fever, and toxic shock syndrome. Group B Streptococci can cause bacterial pneumonia, meningitis (infection of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord), and blood infections.

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Incidence and Prevalence of Strep Throat

In most cases, sore throat (pharyngitis) in children and adolescents occurs as a result of a viral infection. About 15% of sore throats are caused by Streptococcus bacteria.

Strep throat is most common between the ages of 5 and 15. The condition also can occur in younger children and adults. In children younger than 3 years of age, strep infection often causes ear infection (otitis media) and usually does not result in a sore throat.

In the United States, children typically average one Streptococcus infection every 4 years. Strep is most prevalent in late fall, winter, and early spring, when children are in schools and daycare centers.

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