Sore throat is usually caused by a viral (most common) or bacterial infection.
Sore throat caused by a bacteria might be due to an infection called "strep throat."
With strep throat, red spots on the roof of the mouth or a swollen uvula may be seen, and white patches can appear on the tonsils that are glands in the back of the throat.
If sore throat is caused by a virus, other symptoms like runny nose, Itchy or red eyes, cough, stuffed up chest, raspy voice may be present too. Antibiotics are not used and not helpful in this case.
People with strep throat do not usually have itchy or red eyes, a runny nose or a cough.
However, it is very important to diagnose “strep throat” and treat it with appropriate antibiotics.
Over-the-counter pain medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen plus throat lozenges or sprays can help with pain.
It is important to remember not to use aspirin or any medicines that have aspirin in children younger than 18 years since it can cause a serious problem called Reye syndrome
Children with fever should stay home for at least 24 hours after the fever has normalized.
Remember that frequent hand washing with soap and water prevents the spread of infections.
A painful throat can derail your day, especially when it’s strep throat, a bacterial infection that spreads quickly and hits hard. At Avecina Medical, we make answers simple with a rapid strep test and immediate guidance so you can get back to feeling well. From kids with sudden fevers to adults with swollen glands, our clinicians zero in on the cause of your sore throat / pharyngitis and recommend the next best step, often during the same visit.
Our service combines a clinical exam, on-site diagnostics, and timely treatment. A quick test helps identify the cause of throat pain, ensuring accurate diagnosis, avoiding unnecessary antibiotics, and helping patients receive the right care faster. The benefits are clear: fewer sick days, faster relief, and reduced transmission. If you need a diagnosis and treatment for pharyngitis, our team provides evidence-based options and practical self-care tips you can start today.
When your throat hurts, timing matters. Avecina’s streamlined visit flow shortens wait times while keeping quality high. You’ll get a focused evaluation, an on-site strep test, and a clear plan, often within a single appointment. Accurate testing ensures antibiotics are used appropriately for confirmed strep throat, while viral sore throat / pharyngitis is treated with supportive care to relieve pain and inflammation.
The strep test identifies the bacteria responsible for many throat infections. Rapid antigen testing provides quick results, and a follow-up throat culture can confirm accuracy. Determining whether the infection is bacterial or viral ensures effective treatment and faster recovery.
Right away. Once your strep test is positive, our providers can start treatment promptly to ease pain, shorten disease duration, and lower the risk of complications. If your sore throat / pharyngitis is viral, we’ll tailor guidance for symptom relief, hydration, and return-to-work/school timing.
Our clinics deliver efficient care without losing the human touch. From the front desk to follow-up, every step supports clear communication and sound clinical decisions. We emphasize accurate testing, appropriate treatment, and compassionate care that includes guidance on home remedies, recognizing warning signs, and preventing future illness. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or a professional on the go, we help you move from uncertainty to clarity with minimal disruption to your day. With extended hours, digital check-in, and multiple convenient locations across Jacksonville, FL, and nearby areas, getting the care you need has never been easier.
At Avecina Medical, your health is our priority. Our experienced providers combine modern diagnostics with friendly, down-to-earth care to treat pharyngitis fast and well. Need a same-day strep test? Walk in or reserve your spot online and visit any of our Jacksonville, FL centers or one of 26 nearby locations.
From rapid answers to right-sized treatment, we deliver the dependable care your family deserves, every visit, every time.
Yes, at our Jacksonville-area urgent care clinics, you can walk in, no appointment needed for evaluation of symptoms like sore throat or possible strep throat, and a same-day strep test when needed.
If you have a sore throat or pharyngitis with white patches on your tonsils, red spots on the roof of your mouth, and no cough or runny nose, you likely need a strep test.
Yes, our Jacksonville sites have in-house laboratory capabilities, including rapid strep test, flu testing, and other diagnostics, which enable faster diagnosis and treatment of strep throat and other throat/pharyngitis issues.
Our urgent care locations in Jacksonville operate Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., making it easier to address sore throat / pharyngitis promptly.
You do not need a prior appointment; walk-ins are welcome at all Jacksonville-area locations for strep throat, Test, sore throat, or pharyngitis care, ensuring quick access to treatment when urgency matters.
Absolutely, our Jacksonville urgent care network is configured to serve patients of all ages over 6 months, offering evaluation and treatment of sore throat, pharyngitis, and strep throat, as well as convenient locations across surrounding communities.
