Same-Day Sore Throat Care and Strep Testing
When your throat hurts, you want relief fast. UHealth Clinic at Walgreens in South Florida offers reliable sore throat and strep testing and treatment. You can walk in or schedule a convenient, same-day appointment. We’re open after hours, in the evenings, and on weekends.
How to Identify Sore Throat vs. Strep Throat
It isn’t always easy to know if you have a sore throat or strep throat, but some symptoms differ. If you or a family member has symptoms of strep throat, you will want to seek care.
Typical symptoms of a sore throat
The common cold virus can cause a sore throat. Viruses that make your throat hurt can bring on cold-like symptoms, too. These common symptoms usually go away without treatment.
Sore throat symptoms can include the following:
- Congestion
- Cough
- Fever
- Hoarse voice
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Swollen or scratchy throat
Signs and symptoms of strep throat
Strep throat is caused by streptococcal bacteria, is contagious, and requires antibiotics.
Strep throat symptoms can include:
- Absence of coughing
- Body aches
- Chills and high fever that come on suddenly
- Dark red spots on the roof of the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing or pain when swallowing
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Rash
- Red, swollen tonsils that may have white spots
- Tender, swollen lymph nodes in the neck
When to Seek Care for Throat Pain
If you see or suspect symptoms of strep throat, seek medical care promptly. This is especially important for children. Fast, effective treatment can help ease symptoms and prevent potential complications.
Schedule a same-day appointment or walk in if you or your child are experiencing any of these symptoms:
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- High fever (above 101°F)
- Rash or severe discomfort
- Symptoms that last longer than a week
A strep test will determine if your sore throat is caused by streptococcal bacteria. If it is strep, we can prescribe antibiotics, which you can pick up right at the Walgreens pharmacy. If it isn't strep, we will recommend therapies to alleviate the soreness and other symptoms.
With treatment, strep throat symptoms should improve in one or two days. Stay home and rest to avoid spreading the strep germs to others.
What to Expect: Rapid, Reliable Testing for Strep Throat
We use two types of tests to diagnose strep throat:
-
Rapid Strep Test:
- Quick throat swab
- Results in 5–10 minutes
-
Throat Culture:
- Recommended if the rapid test is negative but symptoms persist
- Results in 24–48 hours
Based on symptoms, your provider will explain the best option for you or your child.
Sore Throat and Strep Throat Treatments
If you test positive for strep, you’ll get a prescription for antibiotics right away. For viral sore throats, your provider may recommend:
- Pain relievers
- Cough suppressants
- Lozenges or throat sprays
- Hydration and rest
If needed, we can send prescriptions to a pharmacy of your choice, or they can be conveniently filled at the Walgreens pharmacy — no extra stop required!
Important Guidance for Children with Strep Throat
Strep throat is more common in children over five years old, but babies and toddlers can get it, too.
It’s especially important to seek prompt medical attention for children who might have strep throat. Without proper treatment, it can lead to serious complications, including:
- Kidney inflammation
- Rheumatic fever, which can harm a child’s heart and joints
- Scarlet fever
Children over 18 months are welcome at UHealth Clinic at Walgreens. Our care teams include specialty-trained pediatric providers who help put toddlers, teens, and kids of all ages at ease. Plus, we can seamlessly connect you to the resources and expertise of pediatric experts and other specialists at University of Miami Health System.
Cost and Insurance Information
We accept most major insurance plans and offer affordable rates for self-pay patients. Costs may vary based on your plan, co-pays, and services.
Why Choose UHealth Clinic at Walgreens for Sore Throat Care
- Same-day care — walk in or schedule an appointment
- Multiple South Florida locations — Easy to find and close to home
- Extended evening and weekend hours — We’re open when others aren’t
- Expert providers for adult and pediatric care — Professionals you trust backed by UHealth
- One-stop prescriptions, refills, and more — Walgreens has your Rx, over-the-counter meds, and all the basics
FAQs: Urgent Care for Sore Throats and More
How quickly are strep test results available?
You can usually get an answer within five to 10 minutes of a swab to check for signs of strep throat. Other tests may take a day or two. Testing and results depend on your symptoms and condition. Your care team will talk with you about what to expect.
Do I need an appointment?
We offer walk-in convenience for urgent needs. It can help to call ahead or schedule your appointment in advance. That way, you can check availability and reduce wait times.
What ages can be tested at the urgent care clinic?
We treat babies 18 months and older, and children and adults of any age.
What should I bring to the clinic?
Please bring your insurance information and any related medical records or details about your child’s medical history. We encourage you to arrive early to complete any additional paperwork.
You can see a provider quickly with same-day, evening, and virtual appointments available at convenient UHealth Clinic at Walgreens locations across South Florida.
Questions? We're here to help.
UHealth nurse practitioners provide expert care and can prescribe medications and antivirals to get you back on your feet.