Question

A 7-year-old child presents with fever, sore throat and a sandpaper-like rash. Group A streptococcus is suspected. The parents are concerned about rheumatic fever. Which statement best reflects the role of timely antibiotic treatment in this context?

Accepted Answer

Appropriate antibiotic treatment of streptococcal pharyngitis reduces the risk of acute rheumatic fever

Answer

Antibiotics have no effect on rheumatic fever risk

Answer

Only antiviral therapy affects rheumatic fever risk

Answer

Vaccination is currently available and is the only effective prevention

Answer

Treating sore throats with antibiotics always prevents rheumatic fever, regardless of timing

Practice question

A 7-year-old child presents with fever, sore throat and a sandpaper-like rash. Group A streptococcus is suspected. The parents are concerned about rheumatic fever. Which statement best reflects the role of timely antibiotic treatment in this context?