Primary prevention of acute rheumatic fever

Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is an abnormal immune reaction following Streptococcus pyogenes (Strep A) infection of the throat, and likely the skin. Primary prevention is the prompt and appropriate antibiotic treatment of Strep A infection, and it can reduce the risk of developing ARF and subsequent rheumatic heart disease.

Citation:
Wyber R, Bowen AC, Ralph AP, Peiris D. Primary prevention of acute rheumatic fever. Aust J Gen Pract. 2021;50(5):265-9.

Keywords:
Acute rheumatic fever; streptococcus pyogenes; Strep A; infection

Abstract:
Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is an abnormal immune reaction following Streptococcus pyogenes (Strep A) infection of the throat, and likely the skin. Primary prevention is the prompt and appropriate antibiotic treatment of Strep A infection, and it can reduce the risk of developing ARF and subsequent rheumatic heart disease.