How Contagious is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is quite contagious. It's caused by bacteria called group A Streptococcus and spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. You can also catch it by touching surfaces contaminated with these droplets and then touching your face. Close contact, like sharing utensils or drinks, can also spread the infection. Typically, people are most contagious when symptoms are most severe, but they can still spread the bacteria even if they don’t feel very sick. It's important to practice good hygiene, like frequent handwashing and covering your mouth when you cough, to prevent spreading or catching strep throat.

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