Are streptococcal infections serious?

Can Be: Untreated streptococcal infection can cause permanent heart damage, kidney problems , arthritis, skin infections and more. That is why you should see your doctor if you have a sore throat to determine if you need antibiotics to prevent these complications.

Some are: Firstly, there are many different strains and species of streptococcus that cause human disease. Each species can cause both mild and serious disease. For example, streptococcus pyogenes (group a streptococcus) can cause a mild skin infection called impetigo or the limb and life threatening necrotizing fasciitis and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome.