The purpose of this study is to learn more about sore throats caused by the germ Group A Streptococcus (GAS) or "Strep". When "Strep" causes a sore throat, it can be treated with medicines called antibiotics. However, if not treated, it can lead to heart problems and other serious diseases. This study will identify the different types of "Strep" that are present in children with sore throats. Researchers will check children with sore throats at least twice weekly among a group of approximately 12,000 children. Study participants will include children, ages 5-16, attending the public elementary schools in Djikoroni-Sébénikoro, a low income community in Bamako, Mali. Throat swabs will be obtained and free treatment is available when a child enrolled in the group complains of a sore throat. The information from this study may help make a vaccine to prevent "Strep" infection in Malian children. Children may participate for the 3 year duration of the study.
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The proportion of each emm-type among children with GAS pharyngitis.
Timeframe: Baseline day 0 through 3 year study period.