Can bacteria cause throat infection?
Bacterial causes of throat infections (tonsillopharyngitis) can require further attention from parents and pediatricians. Streptococcus, or strep, is the most frequently found bacterial cause of sore throat. Streptococcus bacteria are usually grouped together in the configuration of a chain if seen under the microscope, as shown in the picture below. The commonly known strep throat is due to only one member of the streptococcus family of bacteria. This certain streptococcus belongs to the Group A Streptococcus bacteria (GAS for short). There are many other bacteria that may also cause throat infections. Group A Streptococcus is the most common cause in children and adolescents. Some of the other common ones are mycoplasma, neisseria, and strep bacteria other than group A. Bacterial throat infections typically occur in the winter months.
