Hi.. Can understand your concern.. As per your complain sore throat can be either due to bacterial or viral infection. In case of strep which is a bacterial infection comes out to be negative there are more possible chances that you have a viral infection. As Z Pak is an antibiotic containing Azithromycin drug it is not recommended to take an antibiotic in a viral infection as antibiotics are not effective in viral infection and acts only against bacteria so taking antibiotic when bacterial infection is not ruled out is not useful.. You can continue doing warm saline gargles 3 to 4 times a day. Take ibuprofen one tablet twice daily. Throat lozanges one every 4 hours is helpful. Drink luke warm water throughout the day as it can provide relief. Milk boiled with a pinch of turmeric and cinnamon taken at bedtime for 5 consecutive days can be relieving as it has antimicrobial properties. Avoid spicy food. Take soft foods to avoid irritation to the throat. If you want to take antibiotic first re check for strep infection by taking a test again. Hope your query is solved.. If you find the answer helpful please write a positive review and click on find this answer helpful as a token of appreciation.. Thanks and regards.. Dr.Honey Nandwani Arora.