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Strep Throat in Children

Strep throat is an infection of the throat and tonsils caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria. It can cause throat pain, fever, swollen glands and other symptoms.

Strep throat is caused by group A strep bacteria and spreads from person to person. Other viruses and bacteria can cause similar throat symptoms, which is why a throat test is used to confirm strep.

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AAP Guide to Strep Throat in Children

The AAP guide below explains the symptoms of strep, testing and treatment, and when your child needs medical care.

AAP Symptom CheckerStrep throat

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • You think your child may have strep and they have not been tested.
  • Your child is not drinking well or is showing signs of dehydration.
  • Symptoms are getting worse or are not improving as expected after treatment starts.
  • Your child develops a new rash, significant swelling or worsening throat pain.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child has severe trouble breathing.
  • Your child cannot swallow fluids and begins drooling.
  • Your child is very difficult to wake or does not respond normally.
  • You think your child has a life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

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.

More on fever and infection

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms