Bacteria known as group A streptococcus are frequently detected on the skin and throat. Sore throats, usually strep throat, are frequently brought on by group A streptococcal infections. This bacterium can also result in skin infections like impetigo and cellulitis and a rash frequently called scarlet fever.
What Should You Know About Strep A?
Rheumatic fever and glomerulonephritis are dangerous consequences caused by group A streptococcus infections that can affect the heart and kidneys. Anyone can get group A streptococcal illness, although those most at risk are as follows:
- Children under the age of five, especially young toddlers, pregnant women, and new mothers
- persons over 65 with limited access to facilities for personal hygiene
- those who reside in or visit congested areas
- individuals with weakened immune systems or long-term diseases
Due to their general lack of awareness of hygiene regulations compared to adults, children are more susceptible to infection. Additionally, they play in close physical contact and spend more time in crowded places like schools. Group A streptococcus can occasionally enter the body and produce serious infections that can even be fatal. IGAS, or invasive group A streptococcus, is the name of these illnesses. Those who get iGAS illness typically need hospital care.
However, those with group A streptococcus can pass the infection to others by touching their infected skin or coughing or sneezing droplets containing the germs. For instance, if you come into touch with a person who has group A streptococcal bacteria, you might get the illness if you:
- Inhale the particles from their sneeze or cough.
- Drink from their glass or use their utensils as you contact their infectious skin sores, touch something with drops, then touch your mouth or nose.
- Kiss them.
Most typical group Antibiotics prescribed by a doctor are used to treat streptococcal infections. If the infection is severe enough, your physician will use antibiotics to treat you. Most of the time, inpatient treatment is required for severe illnesses. Good hygiene is the best defense against group A streptococcal infection. Wash your hands often to prevent the transmission of bacteria, especially after coughing or sneezing and before preparing, serving, or eating food.
To safeguard everyone in your family, keep surfaces like bathroom sinks, faucets, and door knobs, as well as clothing and linen, clean. Suppose you or a family member has strep throat or another type A streptococcal infection. In that case, you should avoid attending preschool, school, or work for at least 24 hours after beginning antibiotic therapy. Additionally, parents must ensure their kids have had all their recommended vaccines, such as those for influenza and chickenpox. This will aid in reducing the danger of viral infections, which can elevate strep A and invasive group A streptococcal risk.
Treatment for Strep A With Dickey Dental
Strep A frequently does not go away by itself. Before the infection worsens and starts to impact other organs, your doctor has to treat it. Dial (803) 329-2126 to contact Dickey Dental immediately if you have signs of Strep A. A painful throat and tonsils, discomfort swallowing, fever, aches, muscle pains, and fatigue are all possible signs of strep throat.
