Jones Criteria

Jones Criteria are guidelines doctors use to diagnose rheumatic fever, a condition that can develop after a strep throat infection. They look for specific signs and symptoms, such as joint pain, fever, chest pain, skin rashes, and neurological changes like involuntary movements. To confirm diagnosis, typically, at least two major criteria or one major and some minor criteria, along with evidence of recent strep infection, must be present. These criteria help clinicians identify rheumatic fever early so treatment can prevent serious heart problems later on.