We’re currently seeing many patients coming in with sore throats worried that they may have COVID-19. There are other winter illnesses to worry about as well, such as strep throat, flu and colds. If you’re experiencing a sore throat, it can be any one of them. 

But, how do I know if I have strep throat or something worse? There are differences between each illness. We understand that there can be some onusing in knowing whether it’s Strep throat or COVID-19 but AFC Urgent Care North Worcester has created a guide for you to clear up the messy confusion between Strep throat and a sore throat caused by COVID-19.

Strep Throat Doesn’t Come With Respiratory Symptoms

This is a major difference between strep throat and the other winter illnesses out there.Strep mainly targets the throat and tonsils, but you won’t often experience respiratory symptoms,

Strep throat is an infection in the throat and tonsils caused by bacteria called group A Streptococcus (group A strep).Group A strep bacteria are very contagious. Generally, people spread the bacteria to others through:

However, you should watch out for these symptoms of strep throat as sore throats caused by this illness can be severe:

• Red, sore throat with white patches on throat and tongue
• Sudden fever
• Chills
• Difficulty swallowing
• Swollen glands in the neck
• Fatigue

Rarely, people can spread group A strep bacteria through food that is not handled properly. It usually takes two to five days for someone exposed to group A strep bacteria to become ill with strep throat.

COVID-19 Does Come With Respiratory Symptoms!

If you have a sore throat, and let’s say congestion, then it could possibly be COVID-19 since congestion is a common respiratory symptom that accompanies COVID.  Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. Anyone can have mild to severe symptoms. You should be aware of these respiratory symptoms when having COVID-19:

• Coughing
• Difficulty breathing
• Shortness of breath
• Congestion
• New loss of smell and/or taste

Please keep in mind that symptoms may change depending on the newest variant!

As of the 2023 new year, the newest variant is Omicron B.1.1.529. Most people who have had all of the available vaccines will experience mild symptoms, but some people, mostly those who have not been vaccinated, the elderly or those with pre-existing conditions, can become severely ill.

Is There A Test For Strep Throat?

If you’re still unsure about the symptoms and differences, it’s best to get tested for everything. There is a rapid strep test that is performed via a throat swab. This is the first step. If it comes back positive, then we can prescribe antibiotics so you can start treatment on the same day.

Testing for strep throat is one way to rule out what’s causing your sore throat. The next is to consider flu shots, COVID-19 vaccines and booster and COVID-19 testing.

AFC Urgent Care North Worcester Can Help Test You For COVID-19

AFC Urgent Care North Worcester is open seven days a week for patients of all ages, including flu vaccinations, diagnostic rapid molecular tests for COVID-19, rapid strep tests, physicals, on-site X-rays, care for minor bone breaks and burns, and stitches for cuts and lacerations. 

AFC Urgent Care cares about your health and is here for our friends and families in the North Worcester community to give you the right care. Right now. Just walk-in, or schedule an appointment with us. 

AFC tip: If you do test positive for strep throat, make sure you complete your entire prescription! Even if you feel better, you don’t want to stop too soon because there still could be bacteria that can grow back and be more resistant.