Strep Throat (cont.)
Can viruses cause throat infections?
Yes. In fact, viruses are the most common cause of throat infections in
children and in adults. Many types of viruses are known to cause throat
infection, and their symptoms may be difficult to distinguish them from a
bacterial infection. Throat infections caused by viruses usually occur in
non-winter months.
For viral infections, generally no antibiotic is needed (unless the infection
becomes complicated by a subsequent bacterial infection). Most infections can be
expected to run a four-to-six day course. During this period, the child or other
infected individuals can be treated with lots of fluids, rest, and "feel better"
medicines that reduce pain and/or fever, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, Tempra,
Liquiprin, etc.) or ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, etc.). It is important to note
that these measures do not treat the viral infection and only provide some
relief of the symptoms.
Can bacteria cause throat infection?
Bacterial causes of throat infections (tonsillopharyngitis) can require
further attention from parents and pediatricians.
Streptococcus, or strep, is
the most frequently found bacterial cause of sore throat.
Streptococcus bacteria are usually grouped together in the configuration of a
chain if seen under the microscope, as shown in the picture below. The commonly
known strep throat is due to only one member of the streptococcus family of
bacteria. This certain streptococcus belongs to the Group A Streptococcus
bacteria (GAS for short).
There are many other bacteria that may also cause throat infections.
Group A Streptococcus is the most common cause in children and adolescents. Some of the
other common ones are mycoplasma, neisseria, and strep bacteria other than group
A.
Bacterial throat infections typically occur in the winter months.
Next: How common is strep throat? »
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