It’s uncommon for kids under the age of two to get strep throat. But if you or your older kids catch the infection, your baby can get it, too.
Watch the video above for easy ways to tell your baby has caught strep throat.
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Strep Throat Symptoms
What Causes It?(01 of11)
Strep throat is caused by a group A streptococcal bacteria, also called Streptococcus progenies. These bacteria are quite contagious and spread through airborne droplets, as with sneezing or coughing. (credit:skynesher via Getty Images)
How Is It Diagnosed?(02 of11)
The infection's symptoms can be a solid indication of strep, but the diagnosis is confirmed through testing your bacterial culture. Your doctor is most likely to order a rapid antigen test on your throat culture. (credit:Stockbyte via Getty Images)
What Are Common Symptoms?(03 of11)
"Common symptoms are fever, sore throat, and enlarged lymph nodes,” says Dr. Nancy Simpkins, an internist and medical advisor for the state of New Jersey. And this sore throat feels a lot different than a regular sore throat — it can almost feel like you swallowed steel wool. On the flip side, keep in mind that most sore throats actually aren't the result of strep, so if you suspect you have it, see your doctor to make sure. (credit:Sam Edwards via Getty Images)
But Wait, There Are Other Surprising Symptoms(04 of11)
Not all of the symptoms of strep throat are obvious, like a sore throat. Some people experience nausea and vomiting, Simpkins says. And it’s also possible to experience abdominal pain, she adds, due to swollen lymph nodes in the stomach area. You can also have white patches or streaks of pus on your tonsils and/or tiny red spots on your palate, according to the Mayo Clinic. (credit:drbimages via Getty Images)
How To Treat It(05 of11)
Antibiotics like penicillin and amoxicillin are needed to treat strep bacteria, Simpkins says. And when you are prescribed antibiotics, always complete the entire prescribed course in order to make sure the medicine has worked. (credit:Peter Dazeley via Getty Images)
Getting Relief(06 of11)
Fortunately, most people begin to feel better within a day or so of starting antibiotics for strep. In order to treat the fever and pain associated with strep throat, take ibuprofen or acetaminophen, Simpkins says. Lozenges like Cepacol can also help with the throat pain. (credit:Alliance via Getty Images)
But Watch Your Doses!(07 of11)
If you are treating strep with multiple medications, be sure to watch your doses: for example, don’t take both a Tylenol and a throat medication that contains acetaminophen. It is possible to overdose on over-the-counter medications. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure of dosage. (credit:David Sucsy via Getty Images)
Natural Relief(08 of11)
It’s not just a folk remedy — gargling with salt water really does help a sore throat. Drinking hot tea with honey can also provide some relief, as can tea with natural licorice root herb. One 2009 study found that licorice root soothed sore throats post-surgery. (credit:RvDam via Getty Images)
Take Strep Seriously(09 of11)
Strep throat, if treated, usually only lasts a couple of days. However, treatment is important, Simpkins says. “Although the sore throat is the most annoying part for the patient, if treated correctly with antibiotics, it will get better quickly,” she says. “Without antibiotics, the throat infection would eventually get better on its own but the bacteria can spread to the heart, kidneys and bloodstream. Years later the patient can develop rheumatic fever or permanent kidney damage.” (credit:Ariel Skelley via Getty Images)
How To Prevent It(10 of11)
First of all, if possible, avoid anyone you know who has strep throat. (And if you have it, stay at home!) You can also keep yourself from getting strep throat and other illnesses by making a habit of not sharing glasses, utensils, or toothbrushes. Cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough, and wash your hands regularly. (credit:Ezra Bailey via Getty Images)
Pass It On(11 of11)
Some people could have the group A streptococcal bacteria that causes strep throat without having that razor-blade sore throat and trouble swallowing. It’s even possible to be a carrier for strep bacteria without being sick yourself, the Mayo Clinic notes — which means you can pass it along even if you have no symptoms. So like pretty much all other illnesses, good hygiene and frequent hand washing are important for staying healthy. (credit:Roy Hsu via Getty Images)