We can provide fully subsided (free) access to throat swabbing and antibiotic treatment for Rheumatic Fever as part of a DHB funded service for eligible patients.

To be eligible for this service you must:

• Be between the ages of 3-19 years old and be symptomatic with a sore throat

OR

• Be between ages 3-35 years old and have a household contact being treated 

Why should you get a throat swab if you have a sore throat:

• A common cause of sore throat's is a Group A streptococcal infection which is easily treated with a short course of antibiotics

• If left untreated a Group A streptococcal infection can develop into Rheumatic Fever in some patients

• Rheumatic Fever can lead to permanent damage to the heart