Rapid Strep Test
Do you have a sore throat? UHS now offers the option of a rapid strep test without seeing a clinician. This service is available to UM students and UHS patients. (For more information about eligibility to use UHS, see Who Can Use UHS?
To use this service, Schedule an Appointment.
The rapid strep screen is not appropriate (that is, you need to see a clinician instead) if you:
- Are unable to open your mouth wide
- Have difficulty breathing
- Have a wide-spread rash
- Have a fever over 102°F (38.9°C)
- Have had a sore throat longer than 7 days
- Take insulin for diabetes
For a rapid strep test, a nurse will swab your throat and tonsils to collect a sample, which is analyzed for strep (streptococcal) bacteria.
You will be told when to call for the results, and if your result is positive, a nurse will call you.
A positive (abnormal) result means that strep bacteria are present, and a prescription for an antibiotic will be called to the pharmacy of your choice (note that UHS Pharmacy is located on the first floor.)
For more information:
