My tonsils are very red and swollen (they touch my uvula) but there is no white patch on them. I have a lot of difficulty swallowing.

It is possible to get streptococcus bacteria again after the first occurrence. If you are experiencing the same symptoms again, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment. Streptococcus can sometimes resolve on its own without antibiotics, but it is important to monitor your symptoms and seek medical advice if they persist for more than 7 days without improvement.