A positive Strep A test means that a person has been infected with group A streptococcal bacteria. Group A streptococcus is a type of bacteria that can cause a variety of illnesses, including strep throat, scarlet fever, and other skin and respiratory infections.
What Is Strep A?
Strep A, or Streptococcus pyogenes, is a type of bacteria that can cause a variety of illnesses. It is a Gram-positive, spherical bacteria which is found in human and animal tissues. Strep A is spread through direct contact with an infected person or object, and can cause a number of illnesses, including strep throat, scarlet fever, and other skin and respiratory infections.
What Does a Positive Strep A Test Mean?
A positive Strep A test means that a person has been infected with group A streptococcal bacteria. The test is conducted by taking a swab from the throat or skin of the person being tested and sending it to a laboratory for analysis. If the test comes back positive, it indicates that the person has been infected with the bacteria.
What Are the Symptoms of a Strep A Infection?
The symptoms of a Strep A infection can vary depending on the type of infection. Common symptoms of a strep throat infection include sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and white patches on the throat or tonsils. Other symptoms of a Strep A infection may include skin rashes, joint pain, and fatigue.
How Is a Strep A Infection Treated?
A Strep A infection is typically treated with antibiotics. These medications can help to reduce the symptoms of the infection and prevent it from spreading to others. It is important to finish all of the prescribed antibiotics, even if the symptoms have already gone away, to ensure that the infection is completely cured.