I have recently lost my job and health insurance and have not applied or paid for cobra insurance yet. I plan to today. I Ironically, my sore throat turned for the worse.. and really burns. I do not tend to get strep, and in the past, cipro has always done the trick. I am a healthy 60 year old, I am on no drugs or pills of any kind and rarely ever sick. Is there anything over the counter that I can take, or is there a way to get an RX from a Dr. without going in for the visit? what do you suggest I do? I am expecting twin grandchildren in less than one week and I want to be healthy to be with them the day they are born. Gargling with salt water is good, but temporary relief. Please advise. Thank you so much..