THROAT SWAB AND TREATMENT FOR RHEUMATIC FEVER PREVENTION

We swab sore throats in children aged 4 to 19 to check for strep throat. If strep throat is left untreated it can lead to the development of Rheumatic Fever which can damage joints and the heart. 

We treat with antibiotics straight away while waiting for the throat swab results to come through. 

We can also swab and treat household contacts with sore throats aged 3 to 35 of patients when the index case has a positive strep throat diagnosis.

NB: During Levels 2 to 4 we can offer antibiotic treatment without throat swabs for the tamariki with a sore throat and all whānau/household members.