Nickname: Group A strep
Morphology: Gram-positive cocci in chains
Habitat: Generally lives on humans and animals as a parasite, without causing disease
Disease or illness: It can cause serious infections in humans, the most common is “strep throat” and tonsillitis. This microbe is also called “the flesheating bacteria” when it infects human tissue and quickly destroys the cells.
Who is at risk: Strep throat is most common in persons 5-15 years of age but people of all ages can be infected.
Avoidance techniques: Hand washing; avoid contact with persons who are coughing and sneezing; so not share tissues, drinking cups, soda cans, lipstick or silverware with others, especially someone with a sore throat; do not put an open cut or wound in your mouth.