Streptococcus pyogenes facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Streptococcus pyogenes |
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| S. pyogenes bacteria at 900x magnification. | |
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Streptococcaceae
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S. pyogenes
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| Streptococcus pyogenes Rosenbach 1884
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Streptococcus pyogenes is a tiny living thing called a bacterium. It is a common cause of a sore throat, often called "strep throat." This bacterium can also cause other illnesses, like scarlet fever. It is also the main cause of a serious condition called toxic shock syndrome.
This type of bacterium is often found on our skin without causing problems. However, it can sometimes lead to infections. Doctors usually treat these infections with special medicines called antibiotics, such as penicillin. The most serious type of infection caused by this bacterium is known as Group A strep.
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What is Streptococcus pyogenes?
Streptococcus pyogenes is a type of bacterium. Bacteria are very small, single-celled living things. Some bacteria are helpful, but others can cause diseases. This specific bacterium is part of a larger group called Streptococcus. It is one of the most common bacteria in this group.
How Does It Spread?
Streptococcus pyogenes usually spreads through tiny drops of liquid. These drops come from an infected person's nose or mouth when they cough, sneeze, or talk. You can get infected if you breathe in these drops or touch something that has the drops on it, then touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.
What Diseases Does It Cause?
Streptococcus pyogenes is known for causing several different illnesses. The most common one is strep throat.
Strep Throat
Strep throat is an infection of the throat and tonsils. It can make your throat very sore and cause pain when swallowing. Other symptoms might include fever, tiny red spots on the roof of your mouth, and swollen tonsils. It's important to treat strep throat because it can lead to more serious problems if left alone.
Scarlet Fever
Scarlet fever can happen to people who have strep throat. It causes a bright red rash that feels like sandpaper. The rash often starts on the neck and chest and then spreads over the body. People with scarlet fever might also have a "strawberry tongue," which looks red and bumpy.
Toxic Shock Syndrome
In rare cases, Streptococcus pyogenes can cause a very serious condition called toxic shock syndrome. This happens when the bacteria release harmful substances called toxins into the body. Symptoms can include a sudden high fever, low blood pressure, a rash, and organ damage. It is a medical emergency that needs quick treatment.
How Are Infections Treated?
Infections caused by Streptococcus pyogenes are usually treated with antibiotics. Antibiotics are medicines that kill bacteria or stop them from growing.
Penicillin and Other Antibiotics
Penicillin is a common antibiotic used to treat strep infections. It works very well against Streptococcus pyogenes. If someone is allergic to penicillin, doctors can use other antibiotics. It's important to take all the medicine as prescribed, even if you start feeling better. This helps make sure all the bacteria are gone and prevents the infection from coming back or causing other problems.
How to Prevent Infections
There are simple ways to help prevent the spread of Streptococcus pyogenes.
- Wash your hands often: Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing or sneezing.
- Cover your mouth and nose: Use a tissue when you cough or sneeze, or cough into your elbow.
- Avoid sharing: Do not share eating utensils, cups, or food with others.
- Stay home when sick: If you have symptoms of strep throat, stay home from school or activities to avoid spreading the infection.
See also
Learn more in Spanish: Streptococcus pyogenes para niños
