You wake up feeling like death warmed over. Is it the common cold, or perhaps a case of the flu? What if you have strep throat?
You might wonder, “Does it matter what I have? I know I feel lousy. Isn’t that enough?” However, determining the reason you’re under the weather can help you regain your health more quickly. It can also protect those you care about from contracting the illness. Here’s what you need to know about strep throat…
It Isn’t the Same as the Cold or Flu
Even though strep throat has symptoms similar to those of a cold or flu, different pathogens cause each illness. Most colds, for example, stem from rhinoviruses or coronaviruses. Scientists can isolate influenza strains — it’s how they’re able to create the flu vaccine.
Strep throat is similar to colds and flu in that both are highly contagious, especially when left untreated. There are four primary strains of strep — Groups A, B, C, and G. You’re probably most concerned about Group A, which causes the upper respiratory symptoms and fever associated with strep throat. However, Group B’s form of the illness poses severe risks to the unborn children of pregnant women, reports MedlinePlus. If you’re expecting, you’ll need to get tested during your pregnancy to ensure your baby’s health.