With strep being so contagious, it is easy for many to become sick with strep by just being near an individual who has strep throat. Strep is spread through tiny respiratory droplets that are released when the sick individual sneezes or coughs or if you touch or put something to your nose, eyes, and mouth that may have been touched by the sick individual.   There are risk factors that may increase your risk of a strep throat infection:   • Younge age • Strep throat occurs commonly in young children.   Time of year • Strep throat can occur any time of the year; however, it tends to circulate during the winter and spring months.