We offer free sore throat testing for those aged between 4-19 years who meet the BOP DHB criteria for being at risk of developing Rheumatic Fever. If the result is positive for strep throat, a course of antibiotics can be supplied by our pharmacist.
We conduct free testing for other family members between 3-35 year if one person has strep throat and other DHB criteria is met.
Although strep throat occurs all year round, winter tends to be worse as people are stuck inside and living in close proximity to each other. Most sore throats get better on their own after about four days.
Not all sore throats lead to strep throat but if strep throat does develop and is not treated with antibiotics it can cause rheumatic fever in at-risk children and young people or lead to other complications in the general population. Only a very small percentage of people will develop rheumatic fever from strep throat and it is at-risk that need to be tested to prevent this serious condition. If you are unsure if you meet the criteria please talk to our dispensary team and they can guide you.
