Symptom Checker

Exposure to Strep Throat

Strep exposure means a child has had close contact with someone who has group A strep infection. Exposure does not mean the child will necessarily become sick.

Group A Streptococcus spreads through respiratory droplets, saliva and close contact. A child can develop strep throat, scarlet fever or other group A strep infections after exposure.

Call a nurse All symptoms

AAP Guide to Exposure to Strep Throat

The AAP guide below explains what to watch for after an exposure and when to call us.

AAP Symptom CheckerStrep exposure

If the Symptom Checker does not appear here

It is the American Academy of Pediatrics’ own tool and it loads from their site, so a lost connection or a content blocker leaves this space empty. Open it on HealthyChildren.org with the button below, or call your office and a nurse will answer.

Open on HealthyChildren.org

When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

Your child develops sore throat, fever or a fine red rash after the exposure.
Your child has throat symptoms without cough or runny nose and may need a strep test.
Your child has a medical condition that makes infection more concerning.
You are unsure whether the exposure was close enough to matter.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

Your child has severe trouble breathing.
Your child cannot swallow fluids or develops new drooling.
You think your child has a life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

Hours, addresses and directions

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

Exposure to Strep Throat

AAP Guide to Exposure to Strep Throat

When to see a doctor

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

More on fever and infection