Guidelines
Rapid Strep Testing

Rapid Strep Testing

Recommendations

The presence of viral symptoms is strongly suggestive of viral pharyngitis and therefore rapid strep testing is NOT indicated

The rapid test has variable sensitivity, therefore a negative rapid test does not rule-out GABHS

  • If testing is indicated, a rapid antigen (POCT Rapid Strep) test should be done
    • If POCT negative, send a sample to lab and order “Throat Culture”
  • To obtain an adequate sample, swab both tonsils and the posterior pharynx