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Medical information Clinical review pending

Infection Testing

Group A Streptococcal Antigen Test

A rapid test to detect Group A Streptococcus bacteria, the cause of strep throat. Helps ensure timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
Throat swab submitted in a sterile, screw-capped container.
Results
Results typically available the same day if the sample is collected by 1 PM. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No special preparation is required for this test.
Test priceKSh 3,205

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the Group A Streptococcal Antigen Test test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

  • Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
  • A clinician's request / prescription for the test
  • Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

01

Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

  • ✓Sore throat
  • ✓Fever
  • ✓Red and swollen tonsils
  • ✓Painful swallowing
  • ✓History of recurrent throat infections
  • ✓Close contact with a confirmed strep throat case
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

Rapid detection of Group A Streptococcus antigens in throat swabs to guide antibiotic therapy and prevent complications like rheumatic fever.
The Group A Streptococcal Antigen Test is a vital diagnostic tool used to quickly identify the presence of *Streptococcus pyogenes*, the bacteria responsible for strep throat and other related infections. This test is essential for healthcare professionals to make prompt diagnoses and initiate appropriate treatment, significantly reducing the risk of complications from untreated infections.

This test specifically looks for antigens produced by Group A Streptococcus in a sample taken from the throat. It is designed as a rapid test, providing results within the same day to allow for timely medical decisions.

Individuals experiencing symptoms like a severe sore throat, fever, red and swollen tonsils, or difficulty swallowing should consider this test. It is also recommended for those with a history of frequent throat infections or close contact with someone diagnosed with strep throat. Certain factors like young age, living in crowded environments, or having a weakened immune system can increase the risk.
03

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →
04

A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

3

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

05

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →
PreparationNo special preparation is required for this test.
SampleThroat swab submitted in a sterile, screw-capped container.
MethodologyRapid antigen detection assay.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This is a rapid antigen test. False negatives can occur, especially if the sample is collected improperly or if the bacterial load is low. A negative result does not completely rule out infection if symptoms persist. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.
NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.
VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

This test detects specific antigens (proteins) produced by Group A Streptococcus bacteria, which cause strep throat.
A sample is collected by swabbing the back of the throat.
Results are typically available on the same day the sample is received by the lab, provided it is collected by 1 PM. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
A negative result may require further testing, such as a throat culture, if your doctor suspects an infection. Discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider.
The throat swab may cause mild discomfort or a brief gag reflex, but it is generally quick and not painful.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment of strep throat are important to prevent complications like rheumatic fever and kidney problems.
08

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

Explore partnerships
09

Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

  • ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
  • ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
  • LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
  • ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

  • Last updated: September 27, 2026
  • Medical review: not yet completed
  • Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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