Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by Group A Streptococcus. Unlike most sore throats, it needs antibiotic treatment to prevent complications like rheumatic fever.
Symptoms that suggest strep
- Sudden, severe sore throat
- Fever (often above 101°F)
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- White patches or pus on the tonsils
- No cough (cough with a sore throat usually points to a virus)
Testing and treatment
A rapid strep test takes about five minutes and is highly accurate. If positive, a short course of antibiotics resolves symptoms quickly and prevents spread. We can test and treat in a single walk-in visit.
