GAS is spread through direct contact with droplets from the nose and throat of infected people, or from contact with an infected wound or sore on the skin. Symptoms start 1 to 3 days after coming in contact with the bacteria. You can get GAS through:
- Living with an infected person
- Having sexual intercourse with an infected person
- Open mouth kissing, mouth-to-mouth resuscitation with an infected person
- Unprotected direct contact with an infected wound or sore on the skin
- Sharing drug equipment (e.g., needles) with an infected person.