Strep Throat And the chain of InfectIon
Strep throat is a bacteria infection of the throat in which one's throat becomes rather sore and inflamed. It also becomes scratchy and white spots will appear on the tonsils.
The bacteria causing strep throat is Group A Streptococcus or also known as Streptococcus pyogenes. This bacteria resides in humans but also airborne droplets as that is a way for it to be picked up. The reservoir this bacteria thrives in is the mouth and in particular, the throat.
The pathogens of this infection leave the human body via the mouth or nose. They are transmitted out of these places by sneezing or coughing. The victim then breathes in the infected droplets in the air and becomes infected themselves. Another person can pick up the bacteria by sharing the same food or drink as an infected person.
The pathogens of the bacteria now enter the new host, most likely by way of mouth. They can also get in through the nose if breathed in or the eyes if the pathogens get on one's hand then that person rubs their eyes. The nose and mouth are the most likely entryways though.
Anyone can get strep throat although it is more common in children and young adults. Also, it is more likely to go around when people are in close proximity to one another like during the winter to escape the cold. A person is more susceptible to strep throat if they have had it before, get sick easily, or still have their tonsils.
