Strep throat is caused by what type of pathogenic organism? Group of answer choicesa parasitic worma protista virusa fungusa bacterium

Strep throat is primarily caused by a bacterium known as Streptococcus pyogenes, which is a type of Group A Streptococcus. This infection predominantly affects the throat and tonsils, leading to symptoms such as sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. While other types of organisms such as viruses, fungi, and parasites can cause throat infections, specific characteristics associated with strep throat—such as the presence of pus on the tonsils, red and swollen throat, and specific patterns of fever—help in distinguishing it from other conditions.

To summarize, the correct answer to the question is:

A bacterium (specifically, Streptococcus pyogenes).