Strep throat

Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes that affects the throat and tonsils. It often presents with a sore, scratchy throat, pain when swallowing, fever, and red, swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or streaks of pus. It spreads through respiratory droplets from coughs, sneezes, or close contact. Proper diagnosis usually involves a rapid strep test or throat culture. Treatment typically includes antibiotics, which help reduce symptoms, prevent complications, and decrease contagiousness. Most people recover fully with appropriate care, though untreated strep can lead to other health issues.