Streptococcal group a infections

Group A streptococcal infections are bacterial illnesses caused by group A Streptococcus, ranging from throat and skin infections to rare invasive disease. They are most common in school-age children, and adults are affected too; weakened immunity, broken skin, or a preceding cold or flu raise the risk. Spread follows coughs, sneezes, shared utensils, and contact with infected wounds. Forms include strep throat, scarlet fever with a rough rash and strawberry tongue, impetigo with sores on the face and hands, and cellulitis; necrotising fasciitis and toxic shock syndrome are rare. Diagnosis uses a rapid test or throat culture, a swab or blood test in scarlet fever, and a physical exam, imaging or surgery for other infections. Antibiotics are the main treatment, given in hospital for invasive disease, lowering the chance of complications such as pneumonia; impetigo can also receive antiseptic or antibiotic cream.

Seek urgent care for a high fever with a stiff neck, rash, confusion, difficulty breathing, or fever after travel to a malaria area. See a doctor when a fever lasts more than three days, when symptoms return after treatment, or when you may have been exposed to an infection that needs testing. Call the local emergency number for any symptom that is sudden and severe. This page is a reference for healthcare professionals and does not replace an assessment.