Group A Streptococcus pharyngitis

ABSTRACT: Group A Streptococcus (GAS) pharyngitis remains the leading bacterial cause of acute sore throat worldwide. Surges in GAS infections are driven by hypervirulent strains such as M1UK. The 2025 clinical practice guideline update from the Infectious Diseases Society of America introduces evidence-based recommendations for risk assessment using clinical scoring systems to optimize diagnostic testing and reduce unnecessary antibiotic use. This review examines current diagnostic approaches, treatment protocols, antimicrobial resistance patterns, and emerging therapeutic strategies to support nurse practitioners in delivering evidence-based, stewardship-aligned patient care.