We’re all aware that COVID-19 (Omicron B.1.1.529…the latest variant) has not only impacted us, but the whole world. It’s fair to say that 3 years into this deadly virus, we know more about COVID-19 than we did before. That being said, not every symptom we feel will lead COVID-19. COVID-19 is part of our lives, but so is Strep throat and many other illnesses. Strep throat can be minor, but it can be very painful as well.
AFC Urgent Care Torrington has prepared a guideline to educate you in the difference between COVID-19 and Strep throat.
What Causes COVID-19?
COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) is a disease caused by a virus named SARS-CoV-2 and was discovered in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. It is very contagious and has quickly spread around the world.COVID-19 most often causing respiratory symptoms that can feel much like a cold, a flu, or pneumonia. COVID-19 often attacks more than your lungs and respiratory system. Other parts of your body may also be affected by the disease. Most people with COVID-19 experience mild symptoms, but as we’ve seen, some people become severely ill, especially those who have not been vaccinated
Did You Know That Strep Throat Is Not A Viral Infection?
Strep throat is an infection in the throat and tonsils caused by bacteria called group A Streptococcus (group A strep).Group A strep bacteria are very contagious. Generally, people spread the bacteria to others through:
- Respiratory droplets
- Direct contact
Rarely, people can spread group A strep bacteria through food that is not handled properly. It usually takes two to five days for someone exposed to group A strep bacteria to become ill with strep throat.
Strep Throat Versus COVID-19 Symptoms
Strep throat is often viewed as a mild infection, but it can be very painful. The most common symptoms of strep throat include:
- Sore throat that can start very quickly
- Pain when swallowing
- Fever
- Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or streaks of pus
- Swollen lymph nodes in the front of the neck
Other symptoms may include a headache, stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting — especially in children.
Symptoms typically NOT seen in Strep throat are:
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Pink eye
People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. Anyone can have mild to severe symptoms.
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- Nausea
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
Please keep in mind that symptoms may change depending on the newest variant and your vaccination history. As of now, the newest variant is Omicron B.1.1.529.
AFC Urgent Care Torrington Can Test For Strep Throat And COVID-19
AFC Urgent Care Southington has both COVID-19 tests (PCR/Antigen) and a Strep test which will include a throat swob to determine if there is bacteria growth. We also can treat strep with antibiotics.
It is important to finish your FULL dosage of antibiotics. Even if you feel better, you don’t want to stop too soon because there still could be bacteria that can grow back and be more resistant.
AFC Urgent Care Torrington is open 7 days a week. If you need any of the tests, feel free to make an appointment with us, or walk right in. We’re here for you.
