Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci are the principal bacteria causing pharyngitis and tonsillitis in children, and are transmitted from human to human by droplet infection.
If the infection persists for a long period of time, glomerulonephritis, rheumatic fever and other complications may occur. In addition, it has been reported that fulminant hemolytic streptococcal infection leads to a fatal outcome within a short time.
It has also been reported that oral antibiotic therapy with penicillin can reduce fever promptly and render the bacteria almost non-infectious within 24 hours after medication.
Considering GABHS are highly contagious, rapid diagnosis and prompt treatment of these infections can have a positive effect on public health.
However, the rapid diagnosis of these infections is difficult because the initial symptoms can be similar to those caused by other infectious agents.