What causes strep throat?

The bacteria can pass between people through coughs, sneezes, saliva, or shared cups and utensils. Crowded settings and close household contact make transmission easier. After exposure, the throat and tonsils may become inflamed, causing sudden soreness, painful swallowing, fever, red or swollen tonsils, white patches, or tender glands in the neck. Viruses cause many sore throats and do not respond to antibiotics, so the presence of throat pain alone does not identify strep.

Wash your hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes, and avoid sharing drinks or utensils while ill. Rest and drink fluids to support comfort. A GP consultation can determine whether your symptoms warrant a throat examination or test. If strep is confirmed, use antibiotic treatment only as prescribed and follow the instructions carefully; do not share medicine or save it for another illness.

Arrange medical advice for a severe or persistent sore throat, fever, worsening pain, or difficulty drinking. Seek urgent help if breathing becomes difficult, saliva cannot be swallowed, the throat or neck swells quickly, or you are faint or confused. These warning signs can indicate a complication and need prompt assessment regardless of the suspected cause.

Ask how your symptoms compare with viral sore throat, whether testing is appropriate, and how to protect people at home. If medicine is prescribed, ask when to take it, what side effects matter, and when lack of improvement should prompt a follow-up.