Strep Throat- Streptococcal Infection

A number of Streptococcal infections have been reported at Lincoln Hall in the month of February.

Please watch for the following signs and symptoms:

* Sudden onset of fever with sore throat pain.
* Discomfort with swallowing and tender, swollen glands in the neck.
* Some children report having a stomach ache and/or headache.

Diagnosis can only be made with a throat culture performed by your physician. Please wait until you receive the results of the culture before sending your child back to school. Strep throat, which includes a fine rash, is called Scarlet Fever. Treatment is the same for both forms of Strep.

Symptoms usually present one to four days after exposure. Transmittion is usually upper respiratory. Treatment includes antibiotics therapy by prescription.

Your child can return to school after a full 24 hours on antibiotic therapy and when he/she is fever free for 24 hours. A physicians note is also required to return to school.