What is the Incubation Period for Strep Throat

If you are suffering from sore throat that persists for a long time and is accompanied by severe pain, then you should probably not ignore it as it can be a severe form of sore throat, i.e., strep throat. Strep throat is an infection caused due to bacteria known as Streptococcus. This condition is commonly found in children and teenagers; but there are also chances of adults contracting it. As most of the symptoms of strep throat are similar to that of sore throat, the two conditions are often confused. However, one should note that sore throat is caused due to viral infection, whereas, strep throat is caused due to bacterial infection.

How to Identify the Symptoms of Strep Throat
As mentioned above, the symptoms of strep throat are similar to the common sore throat. Along with inflamed and sore throat, one experiences other symptoms like swollen lymph nodes and white patches on tonsils or in the throat. Fever, nausea, vomiting, pain in abdomen, rash, etc. are also some of the other symptoms of this condition. It should be noted that the white patch on the throat is the most common symptom of this condition.

Is Strep Throat Contagious
Strep throat is a highly contagious disease, i.e., it can be transmitted from one person to the other easily. Strep throat can be contagious as long as it is not treated. As it is treated with the help of antibiotics, once the person takes antibiotics, the condition is no longer contagious. If left undiagnosed and untreated, this condition can be contagious for up to 3-5 days.

How long is the Incubation Period for Strep Throat
The incubation time, as you must be aware, is the period between the contraction of infection and appearance of the symptoms. In case of strep throat, the incubation period can range from 2-5 days. However, on an average the infection can develop within 3 days.

How is Strep Throat Treated
It is believed that the infection subsides in itself after 5-6 days; however antibiotics are prescribed by the doctor to reduce the severity of the disease. As aforementioned, strep throat can be contagious if not treated quickly. Penicillin, erythromycin, amoxicillin, etc. are some of the commonly prescribed antibiotics. It is essential to start a course of antibiotics as quickly as possible and even complete it to get the condition treated effectively.

How Long Does Strep Throat Last
The actual answer to this question depends on several factors like the person's age, immunity, etc. Strep throat can last from 10-14 days even on taking antibiotics and proper treatment. If the immunity of the person is very low, it can also last up to 15 days.

Can Strep Throat be Prevented
Although there is no vaccination for the prevention of strep throat, you can follow certain methods for its prevention. Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene is one of the most important steps for the prevention of strep throat. Secondly, having a good diet and exercising regularly also helps in building up immunity which helps in prevention of diseases. Lastly, one should stay away from people suffering from these conditions and avoid sharing of any food or clothing item with them.

Lastly, note that this should be used solely for information purposes and should not be substituted for medical treatment. A quick and proper treatment is essential for complete cure of the disease. Take care!