Strep Infections
Your Health Information
Overview: Group A Streptococcus
Often found in the throat and on the skin, group A streptococcus (GAS) is a bacterium that people may carry in the throat or on the skin; often with no symptoms of illness. Most group A streptococcus infections are somewhat mild illnesses like "strep throat," or impetigo.
The GAS bacteria can cause other severe and even life-threatening diseases, although this is not typically the case. GAS Infection can result in a wide variety of symptoms:
- No illness
- Mild illness (strep throat or a skin infection such as impetigo)
- Severe illness (necrotizing faciitis, streptococcal toxic shock syndrome)
How does it spread?
One was GAS bacteria are spread is through direct contact with mucus of persons who are infected. Another way is through contact with sores on the skin or infected wounds of persons who are infected.
Persons who carry the bacteria but have no symptoms are much less contagious than those who are showing symptoms of illness. People most apt to spread the infection are those who are ill, such as those who have strep throat.
How common is GAS infection?
Every year there are several million cases of mild GAS infection, such as strep throat and impetigo. In contrast, only about 9,400 cases of invasive GAS disease occurred in the United States in 1999†.
How is GAS treated?
The typical treatment for GAS is with an antibiotic. While it is not likely that items like cups, plates, or toys spread these bacteria, it is essential that the patient complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed. This course of treatment typically eliminates an ill person’s ability to spread the bacteria within 24 hours.
How can group A streptococcal infections be prevented?
Good hygiene practice is key in preventing the spread of GAS infection. GAS transmission can be reduced or prevented by diligent hand washing, especially before eating or preparing foods. Hand washing is even more important following couching or sneezing, as the GAS bacteria are present in mucous.
Persons with sore throats, and those who suspect a strep infection should be seen by a health care professional to determine whether or not they have strep throat. Infected individuals should remain away from populated public places, like work or school, for 24-hours following the start of antibiotic treatment.
Health care providers may recommend alternative treatment options, dependent on the severity of the infection.
†Center for Disease Control website, Disease Information, September 3, 2003.
