The provided UK guideline excerpts do not contain specific recommendations for antibiotic treatment in confirmed cases of Group A Streptococcal pharyngitis NICE NG237,NICE NG95,NICE NG63.
However, general principles for managing acute respiratory infections (ARIs), which include sore throat, are outlined NICE NG237. For individuals with symptoms of an ARI, a clinical assessment should be used to make a diagnosis and decide whether to prescribe antimicrobials, either immediately or as a back-up prescription NICE NG237. Self-care advice should also be offered NICE NG237. When making prescribing decisions, a person's overall health and social circumstances should be considered, with a potentially lower threshold for treatment or referral for those at higher risk of poor outcomes, such as individuals with comorbidities or frailty NICE NG237.
Antimicrobial stewardship guidelines emphasise the importance of local system-wide approaches to reduce inappropriate antimicrobial demand and use NICE NG63. Resources should be available for healthcare professionals to inform the public about self-limiting infections, encouraging self-management when safe NICE NG63. This includes advice on recognising self-limiting infections, seeking further advice if unsure, managing symptoms at home, and identifying red flag symptoms that warrant medical help NICE NG63.