Most sore throats are caused by viruses and settle on their own within a week. A smaller number are bacterial and benefit from antibiotics, and our pharmacist can tell the difference using a recognised clinical scoring system.
We will look at your throat, ask about your symptoms and check your temperature and glands. Where the score suggests a bacterial infection and you are eligible, antibiotics can be supplied straight away under NHS Pharmacy First.
Where antibiotics are not needed, we will advise on relieving the symptoms and tell you what to watch for. Come back or seek urgent advice if you have difficulty breathing or swallowing, or if symptoms worsen sharply.
