Group A streptococcal pharyngitis is an infection of the pharynx caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, a gram-positive group A streptococcus, and is also known as streptococcal sore throat [1]. Humans serve as the primary natural reservoir for the causative organism [1].
Disease overview
Bacterial Evidence-backed information EN 5/7 applicable sections · ZH 5/7 applicable sections Updated Oct 23, 2026
Group A streptococcal pharyngitis, commonly called strep throat, is a pharyngeal infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes and represents a frequent bacterial illness in children [1]. It accounts for a substantial proportion of sore throat episodes in pediatric and adult populations and shows seasonal concentration in late winter and early spring [1]. Some clinical studies have compared antibiotic regimens for this condition, though such data primarily inform therapeutic rather than public-health characterization [2].
Read the full clinical and epidemiological profile 6
Typical manifestations include fever, sore throat, reddened tonsils, and enlarged anterior cervical lymph nodes, with possible headache and nausea or vomiting [1]. A sandpaper-like rash indicative of scarlet fever may appear in some cases [1]. Symptoms generally emerge one to three days after exposure and persist for seven to ten days [1].
This infection is a common bacterial cause of pharyngitis in children, responsible for 15–40% of pediatric sore throats and 5–15% of adult cases [1]. Occurrence peaks in late winter and early spring [1]. Crowded environments such as schools and military settings facilitate higher transmission rates [1].
The disease spreads through respiratory droplets released by talking, coughing, or sneezing, and via contact with contaminated surfaces followed by touching the mouth, nose, or eyes [1]. Direct contact with infected sores or skin harboring group A strep can also transmit the bacterium [1]. Close personal contact is the main mode, while dried bacteria in dust are not infectious and contaminated food outbreaks are uncommon [1].
Frequent hand washing and avoidance of shared eating utensils reduce transmission [1]. No vaccine is currently available [1]. Tonsillectomy may be considered for individuals with frequent throat infections exceeding three episodes per year, though overall benefit is modest [1]. Treating asymptomatic exposed persons or chronic carriers is not advised because spread and complication risks are low [1].
- 1 Wikipedia contributors. Streptococcal pharyngitis - Wikipedia [Internet]. Wikipedia. cited 23 Oct 2026. Available from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Streptococcal_pharyngitis
- 2 Sun X et al. Efficacy and safety of 24 antibiotics for group A streptococcal pharyngitis: a network meta-analysis of 64 randomized controlled trials. Front Public Health. 2026. PMID: 42440760. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2026.1848949. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42440760/
- J02.0
- 1B51
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Diagnosis and Management of Group a Streptococcal Pharyngitis in the United States, 2011–2015
BMC Infectious Diseases
Guideline for the management of acute sore throat
Clinical Microbiology and Infection
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