Many sore throats are viral and do not require an antibiotic. A physician may take a throat swab to help them determine if your sore throat is caused by a bacteria (streptococcus) that might require an antibiotic or a virus that would not need an antibiotic. Generally, throat swabs are sent to the hospital and it takes a few days to get the result. Another option is to have a Rapid Strep Test done in any of our clinics. This way you can find out right away if your sore throat will require an antibiotic for treatment.