Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci are the most common bacterial cause of pharyngitis or "strep throat." Streptococcal pharyngitis occurs most commonly from October to April, often in children 5 to 10 years old but also in adults. The infection is spread by direct person-to-person contact with nasal secretions or saliva.

The organism may be present in the throat of people without causing a sore throat. This is referred to as colonization.

Small children frequently have no symptoms or symptoms too mild for diagnosis. Even though the sore throat usually gets better on its own (self-limited), people who have strep throat should take antibiotics to prevent some of the more serious complications of this infection, particularly acute rheumatic fever.

Risk factors include recent strep throat in family or household members. The incidence is 5 in 1,000 people.

• sore throat
• red throat
• difficulty swallowing
• fever with sudden onset
• tender, swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• general discomfort, uneasiness or ill feeling (malaise)
• nausea
• loss of appetite
• rash may be present

• tongue problems
• neck pain
• nasal discharge
• nasal congestion
• muscle pain
• joint stiffness
• headache
• abnormal taste

Throat swab can be tested for culture and a rapid antigen. The culture is the best test for confirming strep throat. The rapid antigen test is quicker but only detects about 60-90% of all cases.

• otitis media
• sinusitis
• mastoiditis
• peritonsillar abscess
• rheumatic fever
• glomerulonephritis
• scarlet fever