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Strep throat is a type of throat infection caused by bacteria. Although it most often occurs in children between the ages of 5 and 15, it can also affect adults and younger children. Strep throat is most frequently diagnosed during the late fall, winter, and early spring.
Healthcare providers may refer to strep throat as acute streptococcal pharyngitis.
Strep throat is the most common type of bacterial throat infection. It is caused by group A streptococcus bacteria (GAS for short). The scientific name for these bacteria is Streptococcus pyogenes.
(Click Strep Throat Causes for more information about group A streptococcus.)
Up to 10 percent of adults who seek medical care for a sore throat are diagnosed with strep throat. Although common, strep throat is not the most likely reason for a sore throat. Up to 50 percent of sore throats in adults are caused by an infection with a virus.
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