Strep throat in infants: Is this common?

My 10-month-old child has had strep throat twice. Is this normal or should I be concerned?

- Kim / Kansas

Answer

Strep throat, an infection caused by streptococcus bacteria, can occur at any age. However, it's rare in children younger than 3 years old. Children who get repeated strep throat may be re-contacting a carrier of strep in the home or child care or may be carriers themselves. The recurrence of strep throat is likely not a sign of an underlying problem with the child's immune system.

Signs and symptoms of strep throat in infants include:

• Sleeplessness
• Irritability
• Fever
• Refusal to drink a bottle, or breast-feed
• Occasionally, a fine, red rash on the torso, arms and legs

Treatment of strep throat, which includes antibiotics, is the same for both younger and older children.