What's Strep Throat?

Strep Throat

Strep throat is an infection caused by a type of bacteria called group A streptococcus (say: strep-toe-KOK-us). Not all sore throats are due to a strep infection.

To figure out if you have strep throat, your doctor will ask you so say "ahh" to see inside your mouth. They might use a swab to collect bacteria from the back of your throat. If you do have strep, you'll need to take antibiotics to help you feel better.