Flu, strep throat and cold treatment online
Fever, aches, a throat on fire? Get seen without leaving bed.
Colds, flu and strep throat can feel alike but are treated very differently. Flu antivirals like Tamiflu work best started within 48 hours of your first symptoms. Strep throat needs a test to confirm before antibiotics. Colds need rest, not antibiotics. A provider can sort out which is which.
For non-emergencies only. Call 911 for a medical emergency. A licensed provider decides whether a prescription is right for you. Medication is paid separately at the pharmacy. Adults 18+.
Symptoms of colds, flu and strep throat
Common symptoms
- Flu: sudden fever, chills, body aches, exhaustion, cough
- Strep throat: sudden, severe sore throat, painful swallowing, fever, swollen glands, usually without a cough
- Cold: runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, mild sore throat, cough
A good fit for an online visit
- Flu symptoms that started in the last two days
- You are at higher risk from flu (65+, pregnant, asthma, diabetes, heart disease) and want an antiviral
- A positive home or pharmacy strep or flu test
- Questions about which symptoms need treatment
Get in-person care instead
- Trouble breathing, chest pain or pressure
- You cannot swallow liquids, are drooling, or cannot open your mouth fully
- Confusion, a stiff neck, or signs of dehydration
- Symptoms that improved, then came back with a higher fever or worse cough
For a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Medications a provider may prescribe
Examples only: the provider decides what, if anything, is right for you. Tap a medication to compare prices at pharmacies near you.
"From" prices are the lowest we found on Rx.com and vary by pharmacy, location and quantity.
- Online visit with a U.S.-licensed provider
- Diagnosis and treatment plan
- Prescription sent to your local pharmacy, if appropriate
Medication is paid at the pharmacy. Get the free Rx.com coupon to save.
Cold, flu & strep care in three steps
Tell us how you feel
Pick your symptoms and fill out a short, secure intake. It takes a few minutes.
Meet a licensed provider
A U.S.-licensed provider reviews your answers, meets with you online and makes a treatment plan.
Pick up at your pharmacy
If you are prescribed a medication, it goes to the local pharmacy you choose. Show an Rx.com coupon to save.
Cold, flu & strep questions
Can I get Tamiflu online?
Yes, if the provider thinks you likely have the flu and it is appropriate for you. It works best started within 48 hours of your first symptoms, and it matters most for people at higher risk of complications.
Can strep throat be diagnosed online?
Strep needs a test to confirm. The provider may ask you to get a rapid strep test at a pharmacy or clinic, or review a positive result you already have, before prescribing an antibiotic.
Do I need antibiotics for a sore throat?
Most sore throats are caused by viruses and get better on their own in about a week. Antibiotics only help when strep (bacteria) is the cause.
How much does an online visit cost?
A flat $99 for the visit, self-pay, no insurance needed. Medication is paid separately at your pharmacy, where a free Rx.com coupon or your insurance can lower the price.
Will I definitely get a prescription?
No. The provider prescribes only when it is medically appropriate. Sometimes the right plan is OTC treatment or rest, and the provider will tell you if you need to be seen in person.
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Medical services: All medical services, including clinical evaluations, diagnoses, treatment planning and prescribing decisions, are provided exclusively by licensed independent medical providers. Rx.com provides the technology platform and administrative coordination services, does not employ healthcare providers, and does not practice medicine. A prescription is not guaranteed. Online urgent care is not for medical emergencies and is not a replacement for your primary care provider.
Pricing: The $99 visit fee covers the online visit only. Medications are dispensed and billed by the pharmacy you choose. Rx.com coupon prices are discounts, not insurance, and vary by pharmacy. Photos are of models. This page is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
