Streptococci: are they contagious?
While group B streptococcus can be found on the skin of many people without causing symptoms, group A streptococcus is sometimes very contagious. How much depends on the type of infection.
Sore throats are usually transmitted through direct or indirect contact with an infected person. Pathogens are transmitted, for example, when talking, coughing and sneezing, but also through contaminated objects. Skin infections such as impetigo result from direct skin contact.
The incubation period, that is, the period from infection to the appearance of the first symptoms, is usually one to three days.
Can streptococcal infection be prevented?
You cannot prevent disease. However, it is possible to reduce the risk of infection by washing your hands thoroughly and avoiding contact with infected people whenever possible.
There is a pneumococcal vaccination.
Streptococcus: how long is the infection?
If left untreated, a person infected with streptococcus is contagious for up to three weeks. In the case of skin infections and purulent secretions, it can be longer.
If antibiotics are given, the person concerned is no longer contagious within 24 hours.
