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Strep A Test

Strep A Test

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  • ✔️ Detects Group A Streptococcus from a simple throat swab
  • ✔️ Results ready in just 5 to 10 minutes at home
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children with sore throat symptoms
  • ✔️ Helps identify bacterial infection before seeking GP advice
  • ✔️ Single-use lateral flow test with clear positive or negative result

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What Is a Strep A Test and How Can It Help You?

 

A sore throat can be miserable — but not every sore throat is the same. Some are caused by viruses, which clear up on their own, while others are caused by bacteria. Group A Streptococcus (GAS), also known as Streptococcus pyogenes, is one of the most common bacterial causes of throat infection in both children and adults. The strep a test from Newfoundland lets you check for this specific bacterium at home, quickly and without a GP appointment. At just £9.99, it's a practical first step when you're unsure whether your sore throat needs antibiotics. If you're also managing other symptoms alongside a throat infection, our cold and flu range may be worth exploring too.

Group A streptococcal infections are responsible for a significant proportion of bacterial throat infections seen in UK primary care. The NHS notes that most sore throats are viral and do not require antibiotics, but identifying a bacterial cause early can help guide appropriate treatment and reduce the risk of complications such as scarlet fever or, rarely, rheumatic fever.

 

How Does the Strep A Test Work?

 

The Newfoundland Strep A Test uses a lateral flow immunoassay — the same technology used in many rapid diagnostic tests. It detects Group A Streptococcus antigens directly from a throat swab sample. Here's how the process works:

  • A throat swab is taken from the back of the throat and tonsils.
  • The swab is placed into an extraction tube containing a reagent solution.
  • A few drops of the extracted sample are applied to the test cassette.
  • The cassette uses antibodies that bind specifically to GAS antigens.
  • A visible line appears in the result window within 5 to 10 minutes.

Two lines indicate a positive result; one line (control only) indicates a negative result. The test does not require any laboratory equipment, making it suitable for home use.

 

Who Should Consider Using the Strep A Test?

 

This test is designed for anyone who wants to quickly determine whether a sore throat may have a bacterial cause. It's particularly useful when symptoms come on suddenly and are more severe than a typical cold. The NHS advises that symptoms such as painful swallowing, swollen tonsils, and a high temperature — without a cough — may suggest a bacterial rather than viral infection.

  • Adults and children with a sudden-onset sore throat and high temperature
  • Parents wanting to check whether a child's throat infection needs medical attention
  • People who have been in close contact with a confirmed strep A case
  • Those who want to avoid unnecessary antibiotic use by ruling out bacterial infection

 

How Does the Strep A Test Compare to a GP Throat Swab?

 

Feature Newfoundland Strep A Test GP Laboratory Throat Swab
Result time 5–10 minutes 24–48 hours
Location At home GP surgery or clinic
Cost £9.99 Free on NHS (appointment required)
Sensitivity ~86% ~95–99% (gold standard)

 

Is the Strep A Test Suitable for Everyone, and How Should It Be Stored?

 

The strep a test is suitable for most adults and children, but there are a few things to bear in mind. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, particularly in young children, immunocompromised individuals, or anyone with a history of rheumatic fever. If you are unsure whether this test is right for you, speak to your pharmacist before purchasing. You can also browse our ear, nose and throat range for additional products that may support your recovery.

Store the test kit below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Do not use the kit after the expiry date printed on the packaging. Each kit is for single use only.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Strep A Test specifications
Treatment category Diagnostic test kit
Mechanism of action Lateral flow immunoassay detecting Group A Streptococcus antigen
Effective for Detection of Group A Streptococcal throat infection
Suitable for Adults and children (adult supervision required for children)
Active ingredient Anti-Group A Streptococcus antibody reagents
Pack sizes 1 test per pack
UK classification General Sale / OTC diagnostic device
Preparation Lateral flow cassette with throat swab and extraction tube
Route of administration Throat swab (oropharyngeal)

Specifications of Strep A Test

 

What Is the Strep A Test and What Is It Used For?

 

The Newfoundland Strep A Test is a rapid lateral flow diagnostic device used to detect the presence of Group A Streptococcus (GAS) antigens in a throat swab sample. It is intended for use when you suspect a bacterial throat infection — particularly when symptoms include a sudden sore throat, painful swallowing, swollen tonsils, or a high temperature without a cough. The NHS notes that these symptoms, especially in the absence of cold-like features, may suggest a streptococcal rather than viral cause.

This test does not treat infection. It is a screening tool to help you decide whether to seek further medical advice or antibiotic treatment from a GP. A positive strep a test result should always be followed up with a healthcare professional.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using the Strep A Test?

 

Before using this test, read the following carefully. There are some situations where the test may not be appropriate or where results should be interpreted with extra caution.

Do not use or interpret results without caution if:

  • You or your child have a known allergy to any component of the test kit
  • The individual being tested is immunocompromised or has a history of rheumatic fever — always seek direct GP advice in these cases
  • Symptoms are severe, rapidly worsening, or accompanied by difficulty breathing or swallowing — seek emergency care immediately
  • The test has passed its expiry date or the packaging is damaged
  • You have recently used antiseptic mouthwash or throat spray, which may affect swab quality

Drug interactions:

  • No drug interactions are known for this diagnostic test
  • Antibiotic use prior to testing may reduce antigen levels and lead to a false negative result — inform your GP if you have recently taken antibiotics

 

How Should You Use the Strep A Test?

 

Using the test correctly is essential for an accurate result. Follow these steps carefully and avoid eating, drinking, or using throat sprays for at least 30 minutes before swabbing.

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly before opening the kit.
  2. Remove the swab from its sterile packaging without touching the tip.
  3. Open your mouth wide and use a torch if needed to locate the tonsils and back of the throat.
  4. Firmly swab both tonsils and the posterior pharyngeal wall (back of the throat) with a rotating motion — avoid touching the tongue, cheeks, or lips.
  5. Insert the swab into the extraction tube and rotate it several times, pressing against the sides of the tube.
  6. Leave the swab in the tube for the time specified in the instructions (usually 1 minute).
  7. Squeeze the tube and apply the specified number of drops to the sample well on the test cassette.
  8. Wait 5 to 10 minutes and read the result — do not read after 10 minutes as results may be unreliable.
Indication Age Group Number of Tests Frequency
Suspected strep throat Adults (18+) 1 test Single use; retest with new kit if clinically indicated
Suspected strep throat Children (under adult supervision) 1 test Single use; consult GP if result is negative but symptoms persist

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of the Strep A Test?

 

As a diagnostic device rather than a medicine, the Strep A Test does not cause systemic side effects. However, there are a small number of procedural discomforts and result-related considerations to be aware of. If you're managing throat discomfort while waiting for results, our pain relief range includes options suitable for sore throat symptoms.

Common considerations:

  • Mild gagging or throat discomfort during swabbing — this is normal and brief
  • Slight bleeding from inflamed tonsils if swabbed firmly — this is uncommon and usually minor
  • False negative results (the test misses a genuine infection) — reported in approximately 14% of cases based on published sensitivity data

Less common considerations:

  • False positive results — rare but possible; specificity is approximately 96%
  • Anxiety or distress in young children during the swabbing procedure
  • Incorrect result interpretation leading to delayed treatment — always follow up with a GP if in doubt

 

How Should You Store the Strep A Test?

 

Correct storage ensures the test reagents remain stable and results are reliable. Improper storage can degrade the antibody components and lead to inaccurate readings.

  • Store at room temperature, below 30°C
  • Keep in a dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity
  • Do not freeze the test kit
  • Keep out of reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the outer packaging
  • Dispose of used test components as clinical waste or in accordance with local authority guidance — do not place in general recycling

For other at-home diagnostic tools, you might find our electrical health and diagnostic collection useful for monitoring your health at home.

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Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy a Strep A test online in the UK?

You can buy the Newfoundland Strep A Test directly from Cured Pharmacy online for £9.99 with fast UK delivery. No prescription is needed as it is an over-the-counter diagnostic device. Simply add it to your basket and it will be dispatched promptly to your door.

How does a Strep A test work in the body?

The test detects Group A Streptococcus antigens — proteins on the surface of the bacteria — directly from a throat swab sample using a lateral flow immunoassay. Antibodies in the test cassette bind to these antigens and produce a visible coloured line if GAS is present. It does not enter the body and works entirely on the swab sample outside of it.

How do I use the Strep A test step by step?

Swab the back of your throat and both tonsils firmly, then place the swab into the extraction tube and rotate it. Apply the specified number of drops to the test cassette and read the result after 5 to 10 minutes — two lines means positive, one line means negative. Full instructions are included in every kit.

How accurate is the Strep A rapid test?

Rapid antigen tests for Group A Streptococcus generally have a sensitivity of around 86% and a specificity of around 96%, meaning they are reliable but not infallible. A negative result does not completely rule out infection, particularly if symptoms are strong. Always consult a GP if your symptoms persist or worsen despite a negative result.

Can children use the Strep A test?

Yes, the test can be used in children, but an adult must perform the throat swab to ensure it is done correctly and safely. Strep A throat infections are particularly common in school-age children, so home testing can be a convenient way to decide whether a GP visit is needed. If your child is very young or distressed, seek direct medical advice rather than attempting the swab at home.

What should I do if my Strep A test is positive?

A positive strep a test result strongly suggests a Group A Streptococcal infection and you should contact your GP or call NHS 111 for advice on whether antibiotic treatment is appropriate. Do not use leftover antibiotics from a previous course, as the type and dose may not be suitable. Your GP may wish to confirm the result with a laboratory swab before prescribing.

What should I do if my Strep A test is negative but I still feel unwell?

A negative result makes a Group A Streptococcal infection less likely, but it does not rule it out entirely given the test's sensitivity limitations. If your symptoms are severe, worsening, or have lasted more than a week, contact your GP for further assessment. You may also find products in our cold and flu range helpful for managing viral sore throat symptoms in the meantime.

Who is eligible to use the Strep A test?

The test is suitable for most adults and children who have symptoms suggestive of a bacterial throat infection, such as sudden-onset sore throat, swollen tonsils, and fever without a cough. It is not recommended as a standalone tool for people who are immunocompromised, have a history of rheumatic fever, or are experiencing severe or rapidly worsening symptoms — these individuals should seek direct medical care. Always read the instructions before use.

What are the alternatives to a Strep A rapid test?

The main alternative is a laboratory throat swab culture arranged by your GP, which is more sensitive (around 95–99%) but takes 24 to 48 hours for results. Your GP may also use a clinical scoring tool such as the FeverPAIN or Centor score to assess the likelihood of bacterial infection without testing. Rapid tests are useful when you want a quick answer at home before deciding whether to seek medical care.

Can I use the Strep A test more than once?

No — each test cassette and swab is designed for single use only and must be discarded after reading the result. Reusing any component of the kit will produce unreliable results and could pose an infection risk. If you need to retest, purchase a new kit.

How long does it take to get a result from the Strep A test?

Results are typically visible within 5 to 10 minutes of applying the sample to the test cassette. Do not read the result after 10 minutes, as the test lines may change and give a misleading reading. The speed of this test is one of its key advantages over laboratory-based throat swab cultures.

Does the Strep A test detect other types of streptococcal bacteria?

No — this test is specific to Group A Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes) and will not detect Group B, C, or G streptococci, or other bacterial causes of throat infection such as Fusobacterium necrophorum. If your GP suspects a different bacterial cause, a laboratory swab will be needed. This specificity is actually a strength, as GAS is the most clinically significant streptococcal cause of pharyngitis.

What are the latest studies on rapid Strep A testing?

Published clinical literature consistently supports the use of rapid antigen detection tests for GAS as a useful triage tool in primary care and home settings, with sensitivity around 86% and specificity around 96% compared to throat culture. NICE guidance (NG84) recommends considering point-of-care testing to reduce unnecessary antibiotic prescribing for sore throats. Research continues to evaluate whether wider home testing could reduce GP consultation rates during peak strep season.

How long can you keep using Strep A tests?

Each individual test kit has an expiry date printed on the outer packaging, and you should not use the kit after this date as the reagents may have degraded. There is no limit on how many separate kits you can purchase and use over time, provided each is within its expiry date. If you or your family experience recurrent strep throat infections, discuss this pattern with your GP rather than relying solely on home testing.

Can I use the Strep A test if I have already started antibiotics?

Using the test after starting antibiotics may produce a false negative result, as antibiotic treatment can reduce the bacterial antigen load in the throat relatively quickly. For the most reliable result, test before beginning any antibiotic course if possible. If you have already started treatment, inform your GP so they can interpret the result in context. You can also browse our ear, nose and throat range for supportive products during recovery.

How Should You Use the Strep A Test?

Using the Newfoundland Strep A Test correctly is essential for getting a reliable result. Before you begin, avoid eating, drinking, or using any throat spray or antiseptic mouthwash for at least 30 minutes, as these can interfere with the swab sample and affect accuracy.

What Is the Correct Dose of the Strep A Test?

This is a single-use diagnostic device, not a medicine, so "dosing" refers to how many tests you should use per episode of illness. One test per suspected episode is the standard approach. If your result is negative but symptoms persist or worsen after 48 hours, consult your GP rather than simply repeating the test.

When Is the Best Time to Use the Strep A Test?

Test as early as possible after symptoms begin — ideally within the first 24 to 48 hours of a sore throat developing. Testing early gives you the best chance of detecting the bacterial antigen at its highest concentration. Avoid testing immediately after eating, drinking, or using any oral hygiene products, as these can dilute or interfere with the sample.

If you have already started a course of antibiotics, the antigen level in your throat may already be falling, which could lead to a false negative result. In this case, inform your GP so they can interpret the result appropriately.

How Long Can You Use the Strep A Test For?

Each kit is for single use only and should not be reused under any circumstances. You can purchase and use multiple kits over time — for example, across different episodes of illness or for different family members — provided each kit is within its printed expiry date. There is no clinical limit on how many separate tests you can perform over a period of time, but if you or a family member are experiencing recurrent strep throat infections (more than three to four per year), this pattern should be discussed with a GP, as further investigation or specialist referral may be appropriate.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

What Are the Most Common Considerations When Using the Strep A Test?

Because the Strep A Test is a diagnostic device rather than a medicine, it does not cause systemic side effects in the way that a drug would. However, there are some procedural discomforts and result-related considerations that are worth knowing about before you use it. Being aware of these helps you use the test safely and interpret the result correctly.

  • Mild gagging or retching during throat swabbing — this is normal and passes quickly
  • Brief throat discomfort or soreness immediately after swabbing, particularly if the tonsils are already inflamed
  • False negative results — the test may miss a genuine Group A Streptococcal infection in approximately 14% of cases based on published sensitivity data

What Are the Less Common Considerations With the Strep A Test?

Less commonly, a small number of users may experience the following. These are not dangerous but are worth being aware of, particularly when interpreting results.

  • Minor bleeding from inflamed or swollen tonsils if swabbed firmly — this is uncommon and usually stops quickly
  • False positive results — rare, occurring in approximately 4% of cases given the test's specificity of around 96%
  • Distress or anxiety in young children during the swabbing procedure
  • Incorrect result interpretation, which could lead to either unnecessary antibiotic use or delayed treatment

What Are the Serious Risks Associated With the Strep A Test?

There are no serious physical risks associated with using this test correctly. However, the most clinically significant risk is acting on an incorrect result. A false negative result — where the test shows negative but infection is present — could lead to delayed antibiotic treatment, which in rare cases may allow complications such as scarlet fever, peritonsillar abscess, or, very rarely, rheumatic fever to develop. The NHS advises seeking medical attention if symptoms are severe, rapidly worsening, or accompanied by difficulty breathing or swallowing, regardless of any home test result.

What Should You Do If You Experience Problems With the Strep A Test?

If you experience significant throat bleeding, severe discomfort, or are unable to complete the swab, stop and seek medical advice rather than retrying. If you are unsure how to interpret your result, contact your pharmacist or GP. A positive result should always be followed up with a healthcare professional — do not self-prescribe antibiotics. If your symptoms are severe or you are concerned about a child's condition, contact NHS 111 or your GP promptly.

Can the Strep A Test Interact With Other Medicines or Products?

The test itself does not interact with medicines in the traditional pharmacological sense. However, certain products used before testing can affect the accuracy of the result. Antiseptic mouthwashes, throat sprays, and lozenges used shortly before swabbing may reduce antigen levels on the swab and increase the risk of a false negative. Similarly, if you have recently started a course of antibiotics, the bacterial antigen load in your throat may already be declining, which can also produce a false negative. Always test before using any throat treatments where possible, and inform your GP of any recent antibiotic use when discussing your result.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

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Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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