Can Babies Get Strep?

Strep throat is a common bacterial infection in children, but can babies get strep? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), strep throat most often affects children between 5 and 15 years old. While it’s rare in infants and toddlers, it can still happen. Families should be aware of the symptoms and when to seek medical care.

What is Strep and How Does it Spread?  

Strep throat is caused by group A Streptococcus (Strep A), which leads to a painful sore throat, red dots on the roof of mouth, swollen tonsils, and fever over 100.4°F. While it is rare in infants, symptoms would include; fever, decreased appetite and irritability. This infection spreads easily through saliva when a sick person coughs or sneezes, as well as by sharing utensils, food, or toys with an infected person, or coming into contact with unwashed hands or contaminated surfaces. Because young children are frequently in close contact with others, schools and daycares are common places for strep outbreaks. 

Do Babies Need a Strep Test? 

It is rare for children under three to have strep. Pediatric medical providers do not usually test babies and toddlers for strep throat unless: 

• They have had close contact with someone diagnosed with strep 

• There is a known outbreak at their daycare or school, or someone in the home, such as an older sibling, has been diagnosed with strep throat

• Symptoms suggest a possible bacterial infection

Children Over Age 3 

For older children, strep throat should always be treated because the bacteria can lead to serious complications, including: 

• Scarlet fever 

• Kidney infections 

• Rheumatic fever, which can affect the heart and joints 

If your child has symptoms of strep throat, a medical provider should perform a strep test to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment will vary but typically includes a course of antibiotics to prevent complications and help your child feel better faster. 

Types of Strep Tests and Treatment: 

The rapid antigen test provides results in minutes but is about 85% accurate, meaning it may sometimes lead to a false result. Because of this, your child’s doctor may recommend a throat culture, which is the most reliable method for detecting infections like strep throat. However, throat culture results can take up to a few days to process.

Our team of pediatric medical professionals are here to help if you think your child may be battling strep throat, visit your nearest location. Walk in today, or save your spot in line.