Strep: what it is, who it affects, how it is treated and diagnostic tests

What is streptococcus?

Streptococcus is a gram-positive bacterium that can cause various types of infections, with symptoms in areas such as the throat, skin infections, pneumonia, etc. Streptococcal infections are widespread and can affect anyone.

Who does it affect?

The subjects most at risk are:

Children: Children are particularly vulnerable to strep infections due to their developing immune system.
Adolescents: During adolescence, hormonal changes and a more active lifestyle can increase the risk of strep infections.
Elderly: Elderly people are at greater risk of complications from strep due to their weaker immune system. They may be more susceptible to serious forms such as pneumonia.
Weak subjects: Those who suffer from chronic diseases or have a compromised immune system.

How is streptococcal infection transmitted?

Streptococcal infections can be transmitted by:

The airway: through the respiratory secretions of an infected person, such as droplets of saliva or mucus during coughing or sneezing.
Sharing of objects: the bacterium can also spread through the sharing of personal items such as glasses, cutlery, towels or toys contaminated with the secretions of a sick individual.
Exposure to healthy carriers.

Where is streptococcus located and why is it contagious?

Strep is a widespread bacterium that is present everywhere in the environment. It can be easily found in the respiratory tract, on the skin and in the mouths of many healthy people who do not show symptoms of infection. The bacterium proliferates especially well in crowded and poorly hygienic environments, such as schools, nurseries, barracks and health facilities, where it can easily pass from one individual to another. These bacteria are able to survive for a long time on surfaces and in environments, increasing the chances of infection.

How long is it contagious for?

Streptococcus remains highly contagious until the symptoms of the infection are sufficiently treated. Typically, an infected individual can transmit the bacterium for approximately 10–21 days if it is not treated.

After starting adequate antibiotic therapy, the contagiousness of the infection decreases considerably in a few days. However, it is important to complete the prescribed course of antibiotics to completely eliminate the bacterium and prevent recurrence or complications.

Streptococcus in pregnancy

During pregnancy, pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to Streptococcal infections due to changes in the immune system. This can pose risks to both the mother and the developing child. It is essential that pregnant women are tested for group B Streptococcus infection, the most common type that can be transmitted to the newborn during delivery. Prompt treatment with antibiotics helps prevent serious complications.

What are the symptoms of the infection in children and adults?

Streptococcal infection can manifest itself with different symptoms in both children and adults, among the main ones:

Sore throat: it is common to experience a severe sore throat, accompanied by pain and redness of the throat.
High fever: One of the main symptoms is a high fever, sometimes above 38°C, which can occur suddenly.
Swollen lymph nodes: The lymph nodes of the neck can be swollen and painful due to inflammation.
Difficulty swallowing: A sore throat can make swallowing difficult and painful, especially for younger children.
Endocarditis: Cardiac infections.

How much time is involved?

Symptoms usually appear within 2–5 days of infection. The symptoms tend to reach their peak around the 3rd–5th day. With antibiotic treatment, most infections resolve within 7–10 days.
It is important to highlight that endocarditis can have fatal outcomes.