Brief Answer:
Streptococcal throat infections are very common in individuals of all ages

Detailed Answer:
HI

Thanks for posting the query

1. I wanted to see how concerned we should be about it?
A: Streptococcal throat infections are very common in individuals of all ages. With appropriate interventions, it can be taken care of. Also, you need to note down whether the child gets recurrent pharyngeal infection or tonsil infection. This would dictate the further course of action.

2. the nurse said he could have strepB but I thought only pregnant women get that?
A: Group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcal infection is the most predominant bacteria isolated in throat infections. Group B strep or GBS, is a strain of streptococcal bacteria seldom noticed, that can cause illness in people of all ages. Even though it is predominantly noticed in the newborns and adults, it can infect people of all ages. The source of disease caused by GBS in non-neonates is unknown, it is attributed to the bacteria present in the gastrointestinal tract.

3. Please let me know, and what we should do next and if we should be concerned.
A: First of all, we need to boost the immunity of the child. Give plenty of warm water for drinking. Encourage the child to take fresh fruits and vegetables. Ensure the child doesn't have any nasal block or breathing difficulties through the nose. If any nasal issues are there, it has to be sorted out first.

I hope this answers your query. I will be available for the follow-up queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

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Brief Answer:
The attacks of throat infection may vary from 2-6 in a year.

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for writing back

1. Were you able to view the attachment? It should tell what kind he has exactly.
A: Yes, I was able to view the attachment. The recent infection is with the Group G streptococcal infection. This strain of bacteria is not seen commonly in the individuals having throat infections. There is nothing to worry about, as this group of streptococcus responds well to the Penicillin group of drugs unlike Group A streptococcus, where resistant to Penicillin is well known.

2. The fact that he has had repeated strep 3 times in 4 months is that concerning?
A: I would like to reassure you that, it is common in children to get frequent throat infections. The attacks of throat infection may vary from 2-6 in a year. We need to identify the cause of the throat infection. Throat infections may occur when there is frequent nose blocks and nasal allergy. In the absence of any nasal pathology, recurrent throat infections could be due to acid reflux disease, low immunity and allergy.

We need to boost the immunity of the child by encouraging him to take frequent sips of warm water, eat adequate fruits and vegetables and avoid those things which can aggravate the throat issues.

Hope this clarifies your doubts. Wish your child good health.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

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