Sore throats are common in kids—but how do you know if it’s just a cold or something more serious like strep throat?

At Pediatric Telehealth of Colorado, we help parents across the state get fast answers and treatment for strep throat, all from the comfort of home. Here’s what you need to know about strep, when to test, and how we can help.

What Is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by group A Streptococcus. It’s most common in school-aged children and spreads easily through coughs, sneezes, and shared items like cups or utensils.

Unlike a typical sore throat caused by a virus, strep throat usually needs antibiotics to get better—and to prevent complications.

Common Symptoms of Strep Throat

Strep throat symptoms can vary a bit, but these are the most common signs to watch for:

• Sudden sore throat with pain when swallowing
• Fever (often 101°F or higher)
• Swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or red spots
• Headache or stomachache
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Fatigue or irritability
• No cough – A sore throat without cough is more likely to be strep

Younger kids might also complain of a tummy ache, refuse to eat, or just seem “off.”

How Is Strep Throat Diagnosed?

The only way to know for sure is through a strep test—either a rapid antigen test or a throat culture.
At Pediatric Telehealth of Colorado, we’ll evaluate your child virtually and, if strep is suspected, we can guide you to easy local testing options, including at-home or same-day community labs.

Once confirmed, we can prescribe antibiotics right away—no in-person doctor visit needed.

How Is It Treated?

Strep throat is treated with antibiotics, usually for 10 days. This helps:

• Reduce symptoms quickly
• Prevent the spread to others
• Lower the risk of complications like rheumatic fever

It’s important your child takes the full course, even if they start to feel better after a few days.

We’ll send prescriptions directly to your preferred pharmacy—easy, fast, and stress-free.

Is Strep Throat Contagious?

Yes! Strep throat spreads easily, especially in schools, daycare, and sports. Kids with strep should stay home until they’ve been:

• On antibiotics for at least 24 hours
• Fever-free without medication
• Feeling well enough to return

We’re happy to provide school or daycare notes after your child’s visit with us.

When to Call Pediatric Telehealth of Colorado

Reach out to us if your child has:

• A sore throat with fever or white patches
• A sudden sore throat and swollen glands
• Been exposed to someone with strep
• Symptoms not improving after 48 hours
• A rash along with their sore throat (could be scarlet fever)

We can evaluate your child the same day, recommend testing, and prescribe treatment if needed.

Why Choose Pediatric Telehealth of Colorado?

Pediatric-focused – We care for kids from infants to young adults
Colorado-based – Local providers who understand local families
Fast, virtual care – Same-day appointments from home
Doctor’s notes included – For school, daycare, or sports
Easy prescriptions – Sent straight to your pharmacy

Let’s Treat That Sore Throat

No more guessing games. If your child might have strep, we can help you get answers quickly—so they can feel better, faster.

Written by:

Pediatric Telehealth of Colorado Editorial Team

Medically Reviewed by:

Brooke Douglas, CPNP