Two different germs cause sore throats – viruses and bacteria. When a sore throat comes on fast, it may be caused by the bacteria streptococci (strep-tuh-kaak-sai), or strep. Strep throat is most common in school-age children, but anyone can
get it. A child with strep throat may any of these symptoms:
When a child has a cough, hoarseness, red eyes and runny nose, it may be due to a virus, the flu or a different illness rather than strep. DiagnosisThe doctor or health care provider will examine your child, ask about signs and symptoms, and test for strep.
Treatment with Antibiotics
How to Care For Your ChildThere are things you can do to help your child feel better.
How to Protect Others
When to Call the Doctor or Health Care ProviderCall your child’s doctor or health care provider if they have started taking antibiotics and they:
Strep Throat - Bacterial (PDF), Somali (PDF), Spanish (PDF) HH-I-122 ©11/1989, revised 8/22 Nationwide Children’s Hospital You Might Also Be Interested In
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