How Contagious is Strep Throat?

Strep is caused by the highly contagious group A Streptococcus bacteria, which is transmitted via airborne droplets. So when a sibling or buddy who's infected sneezes or coughs — or opens a door or plays with a toy — he can pass the bacteria on to your child if your child's in the path of the sneeze or cough — or he touches the doorknob or toy and then touches his mouth or nose. (Symptoms usually show up two to five days after exposure.)Once you know that your child has strep, keep him at home until his symptoms subside and for at least 24 hours after he starts taking antibiotics.

Most adults are not at high risk for strep, as most have had it before and developed some immunity. But that doesn't mean adults can't spread the bacteria to other children. Wash your hands regularly when caring for a child with strep, and throw used towels and pillowcases into the wash promptly.

Is there any way I can prevent strep? Many people carry strep in their throat without developing symptoms, so there's no way to avoid some exposure. The best you can do is wash your hands — and make sure your toddler washes his hands — frequently, especially before eating and preparing food.