Why do I need a strep A test?
Your health care provider may order a strep A test if you or your child has symptoms of strep throat. These include:
A sudden and severe sore throat
Pain or difficulty swallowing
Fever of 101° or more
Swollen lymph nodes
Your provider may also order a strep A test if you or your child has a rough, red rash that starts on the face and spreads to another part of the body. This type of rash is a sign of scarlet fever, an illness that can happen a few days after you've been infected with strep A. Like strep throat, scarlet fever is easily treated with antibiotics.
If you have symptoms such as a cough or runny nose along with your sore throat, it's more likely that you have a viral infection rather than strep throat.
