When a sore throat occurs, it can be for a number of reasons—the flu, a common cold and, yes, strep throat.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are around 11,000 to 13,000 cases of strep throat in the United States each year. Our team at AFC Urgent Care North Carolina want you to learn more about strep throat and the symptoms associated with the condition.

Is Strep Throat Contagious?

Strep throat is extremely contagious, which is why it is important to seek medical care once strep throat symptoms arise. Because you can have strep throat a day or two before symptoms appear, you can be contagious without even knowing it.

Fortunately, though, once you begin taking an antibiotic, you stop being contagious around 24 to 48 hours after first dose.

Symptoms of Strep Throat

• Throat pain
• Pain when swallowing
• Fever
• Tender lymph nodes
• Red, swollen tonsils
• Red spots on back of mouth

How Can You Avoid Catching Strep Throat?

As with any medical condition, prevention is the best form of treatment.

Stay ahead of the game by making sure you wash your hands on a regular basis, disinfect commonly touched surfaces often, and avoid sharing any items like drinking glasses or makeup.

Treatment of Strep Throat

• Take an antibiotic, as prescribed.
• Try OTC medications to alleviate pain and other symptoms.
• Use lozenges to soothe a sore throat.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Get lots of rest.

Our mission at AFC Urgent Care North Carolina is to provide affordable, high-quality health care to those across the state of North Carolina!