Strep throat is a bacterial infection that can cause a sore and scratchy throat. It is caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria. Symptoms of strep throat can include:

• Throat pain that usually comes on quickly
• Painful swallowing
• Fever
• Red and swollen tonsils
• White patches or streaks of pus on the tonsils
• Tiny, red spots on the roof of the mouth, called petechiae
• Swollen lymph nodes in the front of the neck
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• General ill feeling
• A loss of appetite and abnormal sense of taste
• Scarlet fever-like rash (some strains of strep throat can cause this)

Its important to note that some people infected with group A strep may not have symptoms. Its also possible to have many of these signs and symptoms but not have strep throat, as the cause of these signs and symptoms could be a viral infection or some other illness. If you or your child has any of these signs and symptoms, its recommended to see a doctor for prompt testing and treatment.