Can Group A streptococcal infection be transmitted through food?

It is rare for Group A Streptococcus bacteria to be transmitted through food that has not been handled properly. The most common methods of transmission for this bacteria are through respiratory droplets or direct contact with an infected person. This type of bacteria can often live in the nose and throat and is transmitted when speaking, coughing, or sneezing, which releases droplets containing the bacteria. People can become infected if they inhale these droplets, touch their mouths or noses after touching a surface contaminated with droplets, or share dishes, utensils, or glasses with an infected person [3].

Additionally, Group A streptococcal bacteria can spread through direct contact with infected skin lesions. People can become infected if they touch these lesions or come into contact with fluids from them. Once the lesions heal, the bacteria are usually no longer able to be transmitted to other people [3].

How does streptococcal infection generally spread?

Streptococcal infection primarily spreads from person to person. People who have the bacteria, even if they do not show symptoms of the disease, can pass it to others. Common modes of transmission include [1]:

• Coughing or sneezing.
• Sharing glasses or utensils with an infected person.
• Touching a surface contaminated with bacteria and then touching the eyes, mouth, or nose.
• Touching an open wound or sore of an infected person.

It is important to note that Group B Streptococcus can be transmitted to newborns through fluids during vaginal delivery [1].

Symptoms of Group A streptococcal infection

Symptoms of streptococcal infection vary depending on the type of infection. Most Group A streptococcal infections are mild, but some can be serious. Group A Streptococcus may cause the following [1]:

• Strep throat: A sore, red throat, with potential tonsillar swelling and white patches.
• Scarlet fever: A disease that follows strep throat and causes a red rash that spreads throughout the body.
• Impetigo: A skin infection that causes sores or blisters, often around the mouth or nose or on the arms and legs.
• Cellulitis: A skin infection that causes redness, swelling, and pain, usually in the legs.
• Necrotizing fasciitis: A rare but serious infection that spreads rapidly across the skin and tissues.
• Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome: A rare but life-threatening disease where the bacteria release toxins that can cause organ failure.

Prevention of streptococcal infection

Some Group A streptococcal infections can be prevented by practicing good hygiene habits, including [1]:

• Avoiding close contact with an infected person.
• Washing hands regularly with soap and water.
• Covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

For more information on the types of streptococcal infections, their symptoms, and preventing complications, you can visit Streptococcal Infections: Types, Symptoms, and Preventing Complications (Arabic).

When should medical care be sought?

If you suspect that you or your child has a streptococcal infection, it is important to consult a healthcare provider. Although many Group A streptococcal infections are mild and go away on their own, some may require antibiotic treatment to prevent serious complications [1]. In rare cases, the infection can cause serious complications such as rheumatic fever or post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis [3]. If you notice symptoms such as a severe sore throat, fever, rash, or skin sores, it is best to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Medical references

• Streptococcal Infections
• About Group A Strep Infection