Strep Test

A sore throat is almost always caused by a virus and clears up on its own. But some cases, especially in children, are due to group A strep bacteria and do need antibiotics. The rapid strep test helps tell them apart at the same visit.

How is the test done?

We swab the back of the throat and the tonsils. It takes a few seconds and may make you gag a little, but it doesn't hurt. The result is ready in minutes, so you leave the visit knowing whether it's strep or not.

If the rapid test is negative in a child or teen with clear symptoms, a throat culture may be needed to confirm, as the CDC recommends.

Which symptoms suggest strep?

• A sore throat that starts fast and pain when swallowing.
• Fever.
• Red, swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches.
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
• In children, headache, stomach ache or vomiting.

Coughing, a stuffy nose and hoarseness point more toward a virus.

What if it's positive?

The medical team prescribes the right antibiotic. Finish it even if you feel better after two days: stopping early raises the risk of complications. The CDC says that once the fever is gone and the antibiotic has been going for 12 hours or more, it's fine to head back to school or work.

And if it's negative?

We treat the symptoms: fluids, pain relief and rest. Antibiotics don't work against viruses, and using them when not needed brings side effects. Come back if you develop a high fever or trouble breathing or opening your mouth.