24th July 2026
Health Technology Wales: Rapid antigen detection tests for group A streptococcal infections to treat people with a sore throat in the community pharmacy setting
Health Technology Wales has published national guidance recommending that people with a sore throat are offered a test for a bacterial infection in their community pharmacy.
Most sore throats are caused by a viral infection. However some are caused by Group A streptococcus, a bacterial infection that can be treated with antibiotics.
Rapid antigen detection tests for group A streptococcal infects are carried out by taking a swab from the back of the throat and can be administered by pharmacists.
Determining whether a sore throat is caused by a bacterial infection can avoid over prescribing of antibiotics.
HTW’s guidance states that NHS Wales should routinely offer rapid antigen detection tests for group A streptococcal infections to treat people with a sore throat in the community pharmacy setting.