Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by Group A Streptococcus bacterium. It is common in children and spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, or sharing utensils.

Symptoms of strep throat in children: Strep throat can develop quickly, usually within 2–5 days after exposure. Symptoms include:

•  Sore throat – Severe pain, especially when swallowing
•  Red, swollen tonsils – Often with white patches or streaks of pus
•  Fever – Typically 101°F (38.3°C) or higher
•  Swollen lymph nodes – Tender lumps in the neck
• Headache and body aches
•  Loss of appetite & nausea
• Red rash (Scarlet fever) – Sometimes appears as tiny red bumps.
• Bad breath – Due to bacterial infection

Strep throat does not usually cause: Runny nose, cough, or hoarseness (these are more common with viral infections).

Strep throat in children is most common in late fall, winter, and early spring.

1. Cold weather and indoor crowding – During colder months, kids spend more time indoors in close contact, making it easier for the Group A Streptococcus bacteria to spread.
2. Weaker immunity in winter – Less sunlight exposure means lower vitamin D levels, which can weaken the immune system.
3. Dry air and irritated throat – Heating systems can dry out the throat, making it more vulnerable to infections.
4. Back to school days – Increased interaction in schools and daycare centers raises the risk of bacterial transmission.

During summer strep throat infection is less common in children. However traveling, overcrowded places, weak immune system or sharing utensils can lead to strep throat.  

Treatment for strep throat in children: Since strep throat is bacterial, it requires antibiotic treatment to prevent complications like rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation.

1. Medical treatment:

Antibiotics: Should be prescribed by a doctor: Antibiotics should be taken for the full course (usually 10 days), even if symptoms improve.

• Penicillin or Amoxicillin (most common)
• Cephalosporins or Azithromycin (if allergic to penicillin)

Pain Relievers – ask your child’s doctor and get prescription medicine

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) for pain and fever relief.
• Aspirin should be avoided for children as it can lead to risk of Reye’s syndrome.

2. Home Remedies for Comfort

1. Cold or warm fluids – Water, herbal tea, broth, or smoothies to soothe the throat.
2. Honey (for children over 1 year) – Natural antibacterial and throat soother.
3. Soft foods – Yogurt, mashed potatoes, applesauce to ease swallowing.
4. Saltwater gargle (for older children) – ½ tsp salt in warm water to reduce inflammation.
5. Cold treats – Ice cream, popsicles, or frozen fruit for throat relief.
6. Rest and hydration – Help the body fight infection faster.

Immune boosting foods:

1. Fruits and vegetables – Rich in Vitamin C & antioxidants (oranges, kiwi, bell peppers, berries, spinach, carrots).
2. Probiotic foods – Support gut health (yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, miso).
3. Protein and Iron – Build immune cells (lentils, chickpeas, tofu, nuts, seeds).
4. Healthy fats – Reduce inflammation (avocados, walnuts, chia seeds, olive oil).
5. Zinc rich foods – Improve immune response (pumpkin seeds, quinoa, cashews, whole grains).
6. Hydration – Keeps the body strong (water, coconut water).

Avoid: Processed foods, sugary drinks, excessive dairy, and fried foods -as they weaken the immune system.

When to see a doctor? Seek medical attention if your child has:

1. High fever (above 102°F/38.9°C)
2. Severe difficulty swallowing or breathing.
3. Excessive drooling (in younger children, may indicate difficulty swallowing)
4. No improvement after 48 hours on antibiotics
5. A rash (possible Scarlet Fever)

Prevention tips:

• Wash hands frequently!
• Avoid sharing utensils & cups!
• Cover mouth when sneezing/coughing.
• Replace toothbrush after recovery.

Image credit: https://www.cdc.gov/

References:

1. https://www.cdc.gov/
2. https://www.luriechildrens.org/
3. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/
4. https://www.nhs.uk/