Strep throat is a disease that causes a sore throat (pharyngitis). It is an infection with a germ called group A streptococcus bacteria.
Strep throat is spread by person-to-person contact with fluids from the nose or saliva. It commonly spreads among family or household members.
Symptoms
- Fever that may begin suddenly and is often the highest on the second day
- Chills
- Red, sore throat that may have white patches
- Pain when swallowing
- Swollen, tender neck glands