Strep throat is circulating through the elementary, middle and high school buildings. To help prevent the spread of this disease, please look through the information on this page to learn more about the signs and symptoms associated with strep throat and scarlet fever, which are caused by the bacterium Group A Streptococcus. 

Description of strep throat (Group A Streptococcus)
Strep throat and scarlet fever (strep throat with a rash) are caused by the bacterium group A streptococcus. This organism is spread by contact with secretions from the mouth and nose of infected persons. The incubation period is usually between two to five days. Children are contagious (able to spread the bacteria) until 24 hours after the antibiotic treatment is begun. Your child should not return to school until they have received an antibiotic for the 24 hours and are feeling well enough to be in school.

Signs and symptoms
Signs and symptoms may include sore throat, fever, swollen glands below the jaw and neck, and pus on tonsils. Sometimes there is a fine, red, sandpapery rash (scarletina/scarlet fever). Vomiting, stomach pain and headache may also accompany it.

Treatment:
If you suspect strep throat, keep your child at home and contact your physician who will perform a throat culture to determine whether the streptococcal bacteria is present. Children exposed to strep throat do not usually require a throat culture unless symptoms develop.

If the diagnosis is strep throat, your child will be prescribed an antibiotic. To prevent a more serious disease (such as rheumatic fever), your child must take this medication until it is gone, even if the symptoms are gone and the child is feeling well.

Children should not be given aspirin when treating illness. It could lead to Reyes Syndrome, which is a serious neurological disorder. Tylenol (Acetaminophen) or Motrin/Advil (Ibuprophen) are both acceptable for children. Give as directed on the bottle.
 
Please remember that children are not allowed to transport medication to or from school and the school nurse can not administer medication without a prescription and a permission slip from the parent on file at the school. A pharmacy label does not replace a prescription.

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This page is maintained by Audrey Hendricks, communications specialist, according to the Web publishing guidelines of Duanesburg Central Schools, 133 School Drive, Duanesburg, NY 12053. Maintained in cooperation with the Capital Region BOCES Communications Service. The district is not responsible for facts or opinions contained on any linked site. Copyright © 2004-08. All rights reserved.