Sore Throat
NHS Pharmacy First Sore Throat Service
at Whittington Pharmacy | Lichfield & Staffordshire
Same day NHS- funded antibiotics for sore throat infections for adults and children aged 5 years and over at Whittington Pharmacy, Lichfield, only if considered appropriate after a clinical assessment. Walk-in, book, or request a remote consultation.
How to Access the Pharmacy First Sore Throat Service
What is a Sore Throat?
A sore throat is a common condition that causes pain, irritation or scratchiness in the throat. It can be caused by viral infections (such as colds and flu), bacterial infections (such as strep throat), allergies, or irritation from smoke or dry air.
Most sore throats improve on their own within a few days, but sometimes they may need treatment, especially if caused by a bacterial infection.
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Pain or scratchy feeling in the throat
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Pain that worsens when swallowing or talking
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Redness at the back of the throat
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Swollen glands in the neck
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Fever
If your sore throat is caused by a bacterial infection, such as Streptococcal infection (strep throat), you may need antibiotics.
What are the common symptoms of a Sore Throat?
Sore Throat Assessment & Treatment at Whittington Pharmacy
As part of the NHS Pharmacy First service, people aged 5 years and above with a sore throat can be assessed at Whittington Pharmacy in Lichfield, without the need to see a GP. After your free NHS consultation, we'll recommend the most appropriate treatment, which may include:
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We can supply prescription-only antibiotics (tablets or oral solution) - if a bacterial infection is confirmed and antibiotics are clinically appropriate
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Over the counter treatments - such as pain relief and soothing remedies, these will reduce throat pain and fever
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Self-care and recovery advice - to ease symptoms and speed up recovery
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Referral to GP or urgent care - if symptoms are more serious or outside the scope of Pharmacy First
You’ll only pay the standard NHS prescription charge (£9.90) if you normally pay for prescriptions. If you are exempt (e.g. children, students, or those with exemptions), your treatment is free of charge.
This makes our service fast, convenient and cost-effective compared with waiting for a GP appointment.
Important: Seek urgent medical help if you develop difficulty on breathing or swallowing, sever pain on one side of the throat, high fever with shaking or chills, swelling in the neck.
3 Simple Steps to Get Free NHS Sore Throat Treatment in Lichfield
Attend your appointment in Lichfield or via remote consultation
Our pharmacist can assess your symptoms and provide same-day NHS treatment if suitable.
Step 1: Book Your Consultation
Walk-in, book online, or request a secure remote consultation. at Whittington Pharmacy Lichfield.
Step 2: Assessment & Health Review
Our pharmacist will review your symptoms and overall health to confirm if NHS sore throat treatment is suitable.
Step 3: Treatment or Referral
If appropriate, NHS prescription antibiotics are supplied on the same day. If not, we'll refer you to your GP or NHS urgent care.
Pharmacy First Sore Throat - Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need an appointment?
No – you can walk in during opening hours. If you prefer, you can book a slot online to save waiting.
Q: Is the consultation free?
Yes. The consultation is completely free as part of the NHS Pharmacy First service.
Q: Do I always get antibiotics?
Not always. Our pharmacist will assess your symptoms and health first. Antibiotics are only supplied if clinically appropriate.
Q: How much does it cost?
If you normally pay NHS prescription charges, you’ll pay the standard fee (£9.90). If you’re exempt, treatment is free.
Q: Can children use this service?
Yes – this NHS service is available for people aged 5 years and above with a sore throat.