Strep throat is a common bacterial infection that affects the throat and tonsils. It’s caused by the Streptococcus bacteria and can lead to a range of painful symptoms. One of the most pressing concerns for many individuals, especially those living in close contact with others, is how strep throat spreads. Understanding the transmission of strep throat is crucial for preventing its spread and managing its impact on our communities. In this blog, we’ll explain if strep is an airborne infection and outline when it might be necessary to seek medical attention.
For same-day sore/strep throat treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aberdeen. Our urgent care center is open seven days a week and appointments are never required. Just stop by during operating hours to start recovering quickly!
Strep Throat: Causes and Symptoms
Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by the group A Streptococcus bacteria. This type of bacteria is highly contagious. Strep throat typically spreads through respiratory droplets. Symptoms can develop within 2 to 5 days after exposure to the bacteria.
Common symptoms of strep throat include:
- Sore throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Fever
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Headache
- Fatigue
Can Strep Throat Be Contagious Through Air?
So, is strep throat contagious through the air? The short answer is not typically. Strep throat is primarily spread through direct contact with respiratory droplets from an infected person. This means that bacteria are usually transmitted through activities like coughing, sneezing, or sharing utensils with someone who has the infection. However, in rare cases, airborne transmission may occur– particularly in environments where there is prolonged close contact with an infected person.
The main mode of transmission of strep throat is person-to-person contact. This makes good hygiene habits essential to reduce the risk of spreading the infection. Practice frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick people, and covering your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing.
Getting Strep Throat Treatment at Urgent Care
At urgent care centers, healthcare providers can perform a rapid strep test to confirm the presence of the bacteria responsible for strep throat. If the test is positive, antibiotics are usually prescribed to treat the infection and prevent complications. Starting antibiotic treatment promptly can also help reduce the duration of symptoms and decrease the risk of spreading the infection to others. In addition to seeking medical care, there are several steps you can take at home to alleviate your discomfort. Be sure to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and use over-the-counter pain relievers to soothe the throat and associated symptoms. It’s important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by your healthcare provider to ensure the infection is fully treated.
Get Walk-In Strep Throat Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Aberdeen
While strep throat is primarily spread through direct contact with respiratory droplets, airborne transmission can occur in certain circumstances. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of strep throat, don’t hesitate to visit AFC Urgent Care Aberdeen for a full evaluation and personalized care. We’re open seven days a week and appointments are not required– simply stop by during operating hours! Our facility accepts most health insurance plans and offers low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about sore/strep throat treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (732) 583-5100.
