Strep Throat: Risk Factors, Symptoms, and High-Risk Groups

Strep throat (streptococcal pharyngitis) is caused by Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Strep).

High-Risk Groups

• School-aged children (5–15 years) — peak incidence
• People with weakened immunity (HIV/AIDS, diabetes, cancer, immunosuppressive therapy)
• Close contacts of infected individuals

Transmission Risk Factors

• Close contact with infected person (respiratory droplets from cough/sneeze/talk)
• Sharing personal items (utensils, cups, toothbrushes)
• Poor hand hygiene
• Crowded settings (schools, daycares, barracks)

Action

If you suspect strep (sudden sore throat, fever, swollen tonsils with exudate, tender neck nodes), see a doctor for rapid strep test or culture. Antibiotics are required to prevent complications (rheumatic fever, kidney inflammation) and reduce transmission.