
Streptococcus A screening test
Ready access to screening symptoms, testing with lab confirmation, and a prescription for treatment if needed
Bacterial pharyngitis is common in children but can also affect adults. It can be quickly detected using the Strepto Direct test (Streptest). This test confirms the presence of a bacterial infection (group A streptococcus), which is essential for determining whether antibiotic treatment is necessary and preventing possible complications.
Group A streptococcus test
With or without an appointment
Without external prescription
- Symptom assessment
- Throat swab
- Result in under 5 minutes
- Laboratory confirmation included if the result is negative
- Diagnosis and antibiotic prescription if the test is positive
With an external prescription
- Throat swab
- Result in under 5 minutes
- Laboratory confirmation included if the result is negative
- Result sent to the treating healthcare professional for treatment if the test is positive
Streptococcus: When should you consult a doctor and get tested?
Group A streptococcus infections often manifest as throat inflammation.
Symptoms to watch for:
- Sudden and often severe sore throat
- Pain or difficulty swallowing
- Fever above 38°C
- Absence of cough
- Swollen and tender neck glands
- White spots on the tonsils
In children, strep throat can develop into scarlet fever. In this case, other symptoms will develop, such as a rash.
It is recommended to get tested:
- As soon as several of the symptoms listed above appear together, especially in the absence of cold symptoms such as a cough or runny nose.
- If a low-grade fever persists for more than 48-72 hours, or if the symptoms are very bothersome.
What happens if I test positive for group A streptococcus?
In this case, an antibiotic treatment will be prescribed to treat the bacterial infection.
Schedule an appointment at one of the following service centres to get tested:
Why is it important to get tested?
If the infection is not treated, the contagious period can last between 10 and 21 days. Testing, therefore, helps prevent the spread and serious complications associated with strep.

Demand the reliability of a laboratory-confirmed Strep A test!
Accessible, fast, and accurate, the Strepto Direct test for Strep A screening is available at our Biron service centres.
Frequently asked questions
How to differentiate viral pharyngitis from bacterial pharyngitis symptoms?
Viral pharyngitis is more common. It is usually accompanied by cold symptoms and develops gradually. Bacterial pharyngitis occurs suddenly, with severe throat pain, a high fever, and the absence of cough.
Can children under the age of three be tested for group A streptococcus?
No, Biron does not routinely test for group A streptococcus. GSA (group A streptococcus) pharyngitis is rare in children under three. Tests are only recommended in the event of an outbreak or suspected scarlet fever. In such cases, it is advisable to consult a doctor.
What should I do if Strep A symptoms worsen quickly?
If you or a loved one has symptoms that are worsening, such as fever, severe pain, vomiting, or others, and these symptoms are developing rapidly, please consult a healthcare professional promptly or contact Info-Santé at 811.
Why is a laboratory confirmation recommended after a negative rapid Strep A test result?
A negative quick test result does not necessarily indicate the absence of the bacteria.
The negative sample will be analyzed in the laboratory using an alternative method to confirm the absence of group A streptococcus. In children, this confirmation is particularly important, as it ensures the bacteria are truly absent.
Is the test covered by my private insurance?
The cost of the test may be fully covered by most private insurance plans. Please confirm the coverage details with your insurer beforehand.





