Which disease is caused by streptococci?
Streptococci are gram-positive aerobic organisms that cause many disorders, including pharyngitis, pneumonia, wound and skin infections, sepsis, and endocarditis. Symptoms vary with the organ infected. Sequelae of infections due to group A beta-hemolytic streptococci may include rheumatic fever and glomerulonephritis.
Can Streptococcus be treated?
Group A streptococcus bacteria can be treated with common, inexpensive antibiotics. Penicillin is the drug of choice for both mild and severe disease.
How do you get streptococcal infection?
Streptococcal bacteria are contagious. They can spread through droplets when someone with the infection coughs or sneezes, or through shared food or drinks. You can also pick up the bacteria from a doorknob or other surface and transfer them to your nose, mouth or eyes.
What happens if strep goes untreated?
If untreated, strep throat can cause complications, such as kidney inflammation or rheumatic fever. Rheumatic fever can lead to painful and inflamed joints, a specific type of rash, or heart valve damage.
How does Streptococcus bacteria enter the body?
These bacteria are spread by direct contact with discharges from the nose and throat of infected people or by contact with infected wounds or sores on the skin. The risk of spreading the infection is highest when a person is ill, such as when people have “strep throat” or an infected wound.
Is a dry cough a symptom of strep throat?
Note that coughing isn’t usually a sign of strep throat and is more likely a symptom of a viral infection….Symptom comparison.
| Cold (viral infection) | Strep (bacterial infection) |
|---|---|
| cough | swollen lymph nodes |
| nasal congestion | pain when swallowing |
| headache | fever |
Where does Streptococcus live in the body?
Group A streptococci are bacteria commonly found in the throat and on the skin. People may carry GAS in the throat or on the skin and not become ill.