Antistreptococcal

/ˌæntɪˌstrɛptəˈkɑkəl/ adjective

Definition

Acting against or effective in treating streptococcal bacteria, which cause diseases like strep throat and scarlet fever.

Etymology

From anti- (against) + streptococcal (from Greek streptos, twisted + kokkos, berry, describing the chain-like appearance of the bacteria). Coined in the 20th century as antibiotics were developed.

Kelly Says

Penicillin was the first major antistreptococcal drug, and it literally saved millions of lives by turning deadly strep infections into treatable illnesses—it's one of medicine's greatest victories!

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