HealthWise KnowledgeBase
Strep Throat
Cause
Strep throat is caused by streptococcal (strep) bacteria, most often by group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus (GABS). Other types of strep that can sometimes infect the throat are groups C and G strep bacteria.
A strep infection causes the
throat (pharynx) and the
Reference tonsils or adenoids Opens New Window Reference 
Opens New Window to become irritated,
Reference inflamed Opens New Window, and painful.
Sore throats are most commonly caused by Reference viral infections Opens New Window or other irritants such as smoke, allergies, dry air, or a throat injury, and not by a strep infection.
How the strep infection is spread
Strep throat can be passed from person to person. When a person infected with strep throat breathes, coughs, or sneezes, tiny droplets containing the strep bacteria are released into the air and are breathed in by other people.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference October 31, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Donald R. Mintz, MD - Otolaryngology |
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