Throat - antimicrobials

• Group A beta-haemolytic streptococcus can be isolated from up to 30% of sore throat cases 

• ABMU guidelines: 90% resolve in 7 days without antibiotics and pain is only reduced by 16 hours 

• Centor prediction score can be used to determine if an antibiotic is required. (Commonly used in primary care)

• If Centor score 3 or 4, consider 2 or 4 day delayed prescription or immediate antibiotics 

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