Strep Test

Not every sore throat needs an antibiotic. The rapid strep test settles it in minutes with a throat swab, and if it is positive, treatment is prescribed during the same visit.

How do I know it might be strep?

The typical signs are sudden, severe throat pain, fever, swollen neck glands and white patches on the tonsils, without cough or runny nose. When there is cough, hoarseness and heavy mucus, a virus is more likely, and antibiotics will not help.

What is the test like?

A quick swab at the back of the throat. It is uncomfortable for a second, not painful, and the result comes back within minutes. No preparation or fasting needed.

Why does treating it matter?

Because untreated strep can lead to complications, especially in children and teens, and because correct treatment stops the spread at home and at school. If the result is negative, the sore throat is treated without an unnecessary antibiotic.

When can I go back to work or school?

With treatment, most people stop being contagious within the first 24 hours and feel better soon. What matters is finishing the full course even when the throat no longer hurts, because stopping halfway is what causes relapses.

What if the test is negative but I still feel bad?

What you have is still treated: some viruses cause a severe sore throat for several days. If you are not better in 48 hours, if swallowing or opening your mouth is hard, or if high fever returns, come back to be checked.

Why come to La Michoacana?

We are on Spencer Hwy, at 6500 Ste 180, just off Highway 225 and minutes from Deer Park, South Houston and La Porte. We open seven days a week: Monday to Saturday from 9 AM to 9 PM and Sunday from 9 AM to 7 PM, so you can come after work or on the weekend without taking time off. No appointment and no insurance needed. Our whole team speaks Spanish, parking is free and the entrance is wheelchair accessible.

How payment works

You pay per visit, with no insurance involved. We take cash, debit cards, credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover) and phone payments. We do not take checks. Ask about the price of your service when you arrive or over the phone: we tell you before we start, so you know what you are paying.

Where our patients come from

Most live in Pasadena, in ZIP codes 77505, 77504, 77506 and 77503. We also see families from Deer Park, South Houston, La Porte, Pearland and the rest of the Houston area. If you work at the industrial plants along Highway 225 or the Ship Channel, we are on your way home.