Streptococcal infections

Streptococcal infections are bacterial infections caused by Streptococcus, a common genus of bacteria that can live in the nose and throat, with groups A and B responsible for most cases. Group A infections are most common in children, although adults are affected too; risk rises with open wounds, preceding colds or influenza, or an impaired immune system, and group B mainly concerns newborns. Group A bacteria can cause strep throat, scarlet fever with a sandpaper-like rash, the skin infections impetigo and cellulitis, and rarely invasive illness such as toxic shock syndrome or necrotising fasciitis. Strep throat is usually diagnosed with a rapid test or throat culture, while other infections may need examination, laboratory tests or imaging. Antibiotics treat strep throat and the more serious infections, in hospital when invasive; pregnant women carrying group B receive intravenous antibiotics in labour to protect the newborn.

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.