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Streptococcus A screening test

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?

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!

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?

Can children under the age of three be tested for group A streptococcus?

What should I do if Strep A symptoms worsen quickly?

Why is a laboratory confirmation recommended after a negative rapid Strep A test result?

Is the test covered by my private insurance?