Sore Throat Test and Treat

When to book sore throat test and treat

Book if you have sore throat symptoms and want to know whether antibiotics are needed:

• Pain or irritation in the throat
• Difficulty swallowing
• A red or inflamed throat
• Swollen glands in the neck
• Fever or headache
• White patches on the tonsils, which can indicate a bacterial infection

The service is typically available for adults and children aged 5 and over. Seek medical advice if your sore throat lasts longer than a week, you develop difficulty breathing or swallowing, symptoms are severe or worsening, or you have a persistent fever.

What is the Sore Throat Test and Treat service?

The service determines whether your sore throat is caused by a virus or a bacterial infection such as streptococcal (Strep A) throat infection. Most sore throats improve within about a week without antibiotics, so testing helps identify the cases that genuinely need treatment and avoids unnecessary antibiotic use.

How it works

• Consultation - the pharmacist asks about your symptoms and medical history to decide whether testing is appropriate
• Throat swab test - a quick swab to check for bacterial infection where needed
• Treatment - self-care advice and symptom relief for a viral infection, or antibiotics if a bacterial infection is confirmed and clinically necessary

Find sore throat testing near you

Fast assessment and testing, treatment without a GP appointment, and private consultation rooms for confidential care. Use the postcode search above to find your nearest Allied Pharmacy offering sore throat test and treat.