Could it be strep?
- Sudden, severe sore throat — usually without a cough
- Fever over 101°F
- White patches or pus on tonsils
- Swollen, tender lymph nodes in the neck
- Headache, stomachache, or rash
What is strep throat?
Strep throat is caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria. It spreads easily through coughs, sneezes, and shared utensils. Anyone can get it, but it's most common in school-age kids and the adults around them.
Unlike a cold or the flu, strep is bacterial — which means antibiotics actually help. Without treatment, strep can occasionally lead to more serious problems like rheumatic fever, so testing matters.
How rapid strep testing works
We swab the back of your throat. The rapid test gives results in about 5–10 minutes. If it's positive, you'll typically leave with an antibiotic prescription the same visit.
If the rapid test is negative but symptoms strongly suggest strep, we may send a culture for confirmation (results in 1–2 days).
How fast do antibiotics work?
Most patients feel noticeably better within 24–48 hours of starting antibiotics. You're no longer contagious after about 24 hours on antibiotics — important for getting back to work or school.
Take the full course, even if you feel better. Stopping early can let strep come back stronger.
Come to urgent care for:
- Sore throat with fever and no cough
- White patches on tonsils, swollen lymph nodes
- A child with sore throat and fever
- You've been exposed to someone with strep
Go to the ER (or call 911) for:
- Trouble breathing or swallowing your own saliva
- Drooling or muffled voice (could be a serious infection)
- Severe neck stiffness with high fever
- Sudden swelling that's blocking your airway
Frequently asked
Can I have strep without a fever?
Yes, especially in adults. The classic signs are sore throat, no cough, swollen lymph nodes, and white patches. We'll test if there's any reasonable suspicion.
How long am I contagious?
Until you've been on antibiotics for about 24 hours. Once you're past that and fever-free, you can usually return to work or school.
Do I need antibiotics if it's mild?
Yes. Even mild strep is treated with antibiotics to prevent rare but serious complications and to stop you from spreading it.