Respiratory Tract Infections (RTI) caused by susceptible streptococci

Respiratory Tract Infections (RTIs), also called the common cold, are caused by a variety of different viruses including influenzas, rhinoviruses, coronaviruses, and adenoviruses. However, RTIs can also be caused by the Streptococcus family of bacteria, which includes group A streptococci (the most common type). These bacterial infections are particularly common in kids and can lead to a whole host of other illnesses if left untreated, such as strep throat, sinusitis, ear infections, and pneumonia.

Group A streptococci are responsible for about 15-30% of sore throats in children, and can survive in the air for up to several weeks, making them highly contagious. These bacteria can enter the body when someone comes in contact with an infected person or when someone comes in contact with infected surfaces. Some symptoms of an RTI caused by group A streptococci may include a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, swollen tonsils or lymph nodes, fever, and/or headache.

Treatment for an RTI caused by group A streptococci is usually antibiotics, either taken orally or given via an injection depending on the severity of the infection. It’s important that the full course of antibiotics is completed to prevent the infection from getting worse or recurring. If left untreated, group A streptococcal infections can lead to more serious illnesses, such as strep throat, sinusitis, ear infections, and pneumonia.

Prevention of Respiratory Tract Infections (RTI) due to susceptible streptococci

The best way to prevent RTIs caused by group A streptococci is to practice good hygiene. This includes:

Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.

In addition, it’s important to get vaccinated against other diseases that can contribute to RTIs, such as the flu and measles. Vaccines help protect not only yourself, but also those around you from getting sick.