It could be a strep throat or just a viral infection of the throat. A sore throat is commonly part of a cold. Here are some ways to keep your child comfortable until you get a throat culture. Your child may have a Strep throat infection and should avoid day care or school until the results of the throat culture are known. Most children exposed to someone with strep throat do not come down with it, especially if exposure occurs outside the home.
Throat cultures are unnecessary for children without any symptoms.
Most children who do catch strep develop some symptoms 2 to 5 days after exposure. Your child does not need to miss any day care or school. Parent Care for Pediatric Symptoms.