How Long is Strep Throat Contagious ?

Strep throat, caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria, is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets, direct contact, or shared objects like utensils. Symptoms 

include :

• Sudden sore throat.
  
• Fever.
• Red, swollen tonsils with white patches.
• Painful swallowing.

Contagious Period :

• Without treatment : Up to 2-3 weeks.
• With antibiotics : Non-contagious within 24-48 hours.

Prevention :

• Avoid close contact with infected individuals.
• Wash hands frequently.
• Dispose of tissues properly.

Complications if Untreated :

• Rheumatic fever.
• Kidney inflammation (post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis).
• Abscesses near the tonsils.