Strep throat

Strep throat is a throat infection caused by bacteria called Streptococcus. It makes your throat feel very sore and scratchy, and it can cause other symptoms like:

• Pain when swallowing
• Red, swollen throat with white patches
• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes (small lumps on the sides of your neck)
• Headache

Strep throat spreads easily, especially through coughing, sneezing, or sharing drinks. It needs to be treated with antibiotics, which a doctor can prescribe. Most people start feeling better after a few days of taking the medicine, but it’s important to finish all the antibiotics to fully get rid of the infection.