Signs and symptoms may include:

  • Sore throat and enlarged tonsils (pus and redness not essential)
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Fever, muscle, body, or joint aches
  • Headache
  • Belly ache, nausea, or vomiting
  • Pinpoint rash
  • Nasal congestion

Treatment:

Antibiotics will shorten the course of the illness and minimize its spread to others. Medication MUST be taken for the entire recommended course.

Other helpful treatments include:

  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (Advil, Motin) for fever and discomfort.
  • BetterBears lollipops/popsicles, sore throat lozenges
  • Popsicles, smooth cool liquids or food (Yogurt, ice cream), tea with honey
  • Heating pad or wam bath for body aches and belly aches
  • Aveeno or baking soda in a bath for itchy rash (oral itch medicine available if itchiness is significant)
  • Decongestants only as needed
  • Tylenol taken with decongestant works better for headache than either alone

Return to school/work (contagious period):

  • You must be FEVER-FREE and on ANTIBIOTICS FOR A MINIMUM OF 24 HOURS
  • Incubation period is guessed to be 2 to 5 days although some people may be strep carriers
  • Scarlet fever (strep with a rash) may cause a lingering rash or peeling skin that can last longer than the fever. Once fever-free, the rash is not contagious.

When to call clinic back:

  • Fever and discomfort for more than 48 hours after beginning antibiotics
  • Muffled voice, inability to handle saliva, or unable to open mouth wide
  • Symptoms of fatigue, fever, discomfit, or loss of appetite lasting more than a week
  • Symptoms return immediately following antibiotic course
  • Siblings develop symptoms within the week

IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT YOU COMPLETE THE FULL RECOMMENDED COURSE OF MEDICATION AS PRESCRIBED!