Strep Testing

About Strep Throat

You woke up this morning and you’re surprised with a sore throat! If you think it might be strep, visit any of our Macey's pharmacies for immediate results and treatment!

Strep throat is an infection caused by bacteria called Group A Streptococcus. Strep throat can occur at any age but is most frequent among school-aged children.

Symptoms start 1 to 5 days after an exposure and include fever, sore throat and tender and swollen neck glands.

It is difficult to tell whether a sore throat is caused by a virus or Group A Streptococcus. Throat cultures or rapid diagnostic tests are used to diagnose “Strep Throat” which should be treated with antibiotics.

Strep throat is more common in children than adults and includes common symptoms such as:

  • Sore throat
  • Pain when swallowing
  • Fever
  • Red and swollen tonsils*
    • *If tonsils have been removed, you can still contract strep throat and would experience the same symptoms.

To learn more about strep throat causes and symptoms,
visit the CDC website here > .

How can we help

If you think you might have strep throat, our pharmacies now offer rapid strep tests and treatment —a convenient service that saves you both time and effort. No appointment needed. Available at our convenient locations to get you back to life quickly.

Patients will complete a questionnaire and qualify for strep testing based age, symptoms, and any underlying health issues. If the strep test results are positive, our pharmacist can dispense antibiotics along with care instructions. It’s important to remember that if the results are negative, you may still be contagious and should take the necessary precautions to keep others from becoming sick. While antibiotics won’t help in this case, our pharmacists can provide over-the-counter recommendations to help you start feeling better. To find a pharmacy near you, click here >

During your visit

Our pharmacies accept walk-ins to help you get in and out quickly.

  1. You will be asked to fill out a brief questionnaire, so the pharmacist has a better idea of your overall health.
  2. Our knowledgeable pharmacist will perform a throat swab and discuss your symptoms. Testing and dispensing times may vary.
  3. Our pharmacist will provide you with a personal treatment plan and care instructions.

A clinical service fee is collected at the time of service and is the patient’s responsibility. If prescription medications are dispensed most insurances are accepted. Check with the pharmacist prior to starting the consultation.