Strep A

Strep A is a common type of bacteria. Most strep A infections are mild and easily treated, but some are more serious.

Symptoms of a strep A infection

Common symptoms of strep A include:

• flu-like symptoms , such as a high temperature, swollen glands or an aching body
• sore throat (strep throat or tonsillitis )
• a rash that feels rough, like sandpaper ( scarlet fever )
• scabs and sores ( impetigo )
• pain and swelling ( cellulitis )
• severe muscle aches
• nausea and vomiting

Strep A infections are more common in children, but adults can also sometimes get them.

Most strep A infections are not serious and can be treated with antibiotics.

But rarely, the infection can cause serious problems. This is called invasive group A strep (iGAS).

What to do if your child is unwell

It can be difficult to tell when a child is seriously ill, but the main thing is to trust your instincts.

You know better than anyone else what your child is usually like, so you'll know when something is seriously wrong.

If your child does not seem to be seriously ill, you can usually look after them at home. They should feel better in a few days.

If they're uncomfortable, you can give them children's paracetamol or children's ibuprofen . Check the leaflet to make sure the medicine is suitable for your child and to see how much to give them.

A pharmacist can give you advice about how to ease your child's symptoms and whether you need to see a doctor.

Treatments for a strep A infection

Most strep A infections can be easily treated with antibiotics .

If you or your child has a strep A infection, you should stay away from nursery, school or work for 24 hours after you start taking antibiotics. This will help stop the infection spreading to other people.

Serious strep A infections (invasive group A strep, iGAS) need to be treated in hospital with antibiotics.

How you get strep A infections

Strep A infections are spread by close contact with an infected person. They can be passed on through coughs and sneezes or from a wound.

In some people, the bacteria live in the body without causing symptoms or making them feel unwell. But they can still pass the bacteria on to others.

Things that might make you more at risk of strep A infections include:

• a weakened immune system
• open sores or wounds
• some viral infections, such as a cold or flu

How to avoid getting infections

Infections like strep A can easily be spread to other people.

To reduce the chance of catching or spreading an infection:

• avoid close contact with someone you know is infected
• wash your hands often with soap and water
• cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze
• bin used tissues as quickly as possible

Find out how to wash your hands to prevent the spread of germs