This is a sore throat caused by the streptococcus bacteria. It can only be diagnosed with a rapid strep test or a throat culture. Symptoms often include fever, complaints of a sore throat, headache or stomachache. If your child has any of these symptoms for longer than 24 hours they should be seen to be tested for strep.
Untreated strep throat infections can have serious complications such as rheumatic fever. Strep throat is usually treated with penicillin. Generally, after being on the antibiotic for 48 hours symptoms have improved. After taking the antibiotic for 24 hours, your child is no longer contagious and can return to school if the fever is gone and they feel better.
Tylenol or Motrin can be given along with the antibiotic to treat fever or for pain relief. Warm salt water gargles and a soft diet are also helpful.
The incubation period after exposure is 3-5 days. Anyone in close contact that develops symptoms during this time frame should be tested for strep throat.