According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 11,000 people living in the United States are diagnosed with invasive group A strep disease every year. So not only do you need to be on guard for the flu virus this year, but you also need to keep an eye out for strep throat.

It’s a very common and contagious illness, so our team at AFC Urgent Care Sevierville wants to share some insight.

Is Strep Throat Contagious?

Yes, strep throat is an extremely contagious bacterial infection.

The underlying infection that spreads strep throat is passed from person to person through airborne droplets, such as those from a sneeze or cough. That’s why it’s important to keep an eye out for symptoms and seek medical care if you’re experiencing them.

Symptoms of Strep Throat

• Pain when swallowing
• Sore throat
• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Chills
• Malaise
• Headache
• Bad breath

How Can You Prevent Strep Throat?

While there’s no way to 100% prevent strep throat, following basic hygiene habits and living a healthy lifestyle are steps in the right direction.

Your best defense is to steer clear of anyone who has been diagnosed with strep throat, or who is exhibiting symptoms that may be strep throat. But there also other steps you can take.

How to Prevent Strep Throat

• Wash your hands often throughout the day using soap and water.
• If no water is available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Regularly disinfect commonly touched surfaces.
• Boost your immune system with a healthy diet, plenty of sleep and regular exercise.

Do you think it might be strep? Visit our medical team at AFC Urgent Care Sevierville for a diagnosis and treatment plan as soon as possible!