Strep throat, also known as streptococcal pharyngitis, is a common bacterial infection caused by the Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria. In close contacts, the germs that cause strep throat are easily transferred from one person to another. When a person with strep throat coughs or sneezes, the illness spreads. Although anyone can get strep throat, it is mostly common among children. In this write-up, we will discuss How long is strep throat contagious and treatment options.
How long is strep throat contagious?
The contagious period for strep throat usually starts 2-5 days before the onset of symptoms and lasts 10-21 days without appropriate treatment. Here is the timeline of how long is strep throat contagious–
- Incubation Period (2-5 days)
The incubation period for Strep throat is the time interval between exposure to the bacteria and appearance of symptoms. This usually lasts for 2-5 days, during which the infected person may not have any symptoms, but they can still be able to pass on the disease-causing bacteria to others.
- Symptomatic Period (10-21 days)
When the symptoms of strep throat appear, the person immediately becomes highly infectious to others. The main symptoms of strep throat are sore throat, high fever, swollen lymph nodes, and white spots on the tonsils. Without effective management, the contagious period may be as long as 10-21 days.
- Asymptomatic Carriage
In some cases, an individual can have strep bacteria without having any symptoms of strep throat. These carriers can still transmit the bacteria to others even though they are asymptomatic, and their period of contagiousness can be several weeks or even months. The regular screening of individuals and appropriate hygiene measures are vital in determining the asymptomatic carriers so as to curb the spread of the disease.
- Reinfection and Recurrence
If you are wondering how long is strep throat contagious, you must be aware of the fact that even after successful treatment, it is possible for persons to have a recurrence or reinfection of strep throat. Re-exposure to the bacteria or incomplete treatment of the first infection can lead to reinfections. The contagious period for reinfection or recurrence would follow the same timeline as the initial infection with the individual being contagious for 2-5 days before the onset of symptoms and for 10-21 days if left untreated.
Treatment options for Strep Throat
Now that you know how long is strep throat contagious, let’s have a look at the treatment options.
- Antibiotics
Antibiotics like penicillin, amoxicillin, or cephalosporins are primarily prescribed by doctors for a strep throat. The antibiotics eliminate the Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, thus reducing the period of the disease and the chance of complications. Antibiotics usually require at least 10 days of uses to ensure the infection has been completely eliminated.
- Pain and fever Medications
The over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can reduce the sore throat, headache and fever that are usually associated with strep throat. These medicines not only give symptomatic relief but also reduce the sufferings.
- Throat Lozenges and Sprays
A variety of throat lozenges and sprays containing ingredients such as benzocaine or menthol can help to numb the throat and provide temporary pain relief and alleviate discomfort. These products can be combined with antibiotics and other treatments to help soothe the throat and ease the pain while swallowing.
- Saltwater Gargling
Gargling with warm salty water is a great way of reducing swelling and pain in the throat. The salt water solution can cleanse mucus and provide relief from the irritating effects of the infection. Gargling should be done several times a day, especially before meals, to have a good effect.
- Hydration and Rest
Drinking fluids, for example water, herbal tea or broth, can be a good way of thinning out the mucus and soothing the throat. Also, it is indispensable to relax and have enough sleep which will then make the body remove the disease and heal itself.
- Immune-Boosting Supplements
The use of specific supplements, such as vitamin C, zinc, and echinacea, can provide immune system support and influence the recovery process. It is wise to go through a consultation with a health care provider before starting any supplement regimen, so that the health care provider can warn you of possible consequences such as interactions with prescribed medications or side effects.
7 . Humidifier
Using a humidifier can help keep the air moist, which can ease breathing and reduce the irritation caused by a sore throat. Keeping the air humid can also help thin out mucus and make it easier to expel.
Conclusion
This shall clear your doubts on how long is strep throat contagious. With an appropriate treatment, a person can significantly shorten the contagious period, and within 24-48 hours of starting the medication he or she usually is no longer contagious. Keeping good hygiene, covering coughs and sneezes and staying away from close contact with the infected individuals are the vital steps to avoid the spread of strep throat and safeguard the people around you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is strep throat?
A: The bacterium that causes the throat infection of the streptococcus pyogenes is known as Strep throat.
Q: What are different ways strep throat is transmitted?
A: Strep throat is highly contagious and it can be transmitted through breathing droplets that occur when a sick person coughs, sneezes or talks, or by coming in contact with surfaces that have been infected by the organism.
Q: What are the symptoms of strep throat?
A: Respiratory tract infections are the most typical symptoms that include sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and difficulty swallowing.
Q: What tests are required to diagnose strep throat?
A: A doctor can diagnose strep throat by doing a physical examination, and a throat swab, which looks for the existence of Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria.
Q: What can we do to treat strep throat?
A: The primary method for treating strep throat is antibiotics, for instance penicillin or amoxicillin, and these drugs work by killing the bacterial infection and lessen the risk of developing complications.
Q: Can a streptococcal throat be associated with complications?
A: If not treated, strep throat may cause rheumatic fever, inflammation in kidney or abscesses in throat and tonsils.
