What instruction should be given to the parent of a school-age child with a throat infection caused by group A beta-hemolytic streptococci?

Continuing to administer the prescribed antibiotic for 10 days is crucial in treating a throat infection caused by group A beta-hemolytic streptococci. This bacteria can lead to complications, such as rheumatic fever or post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, if not fully eradicated. Completing the full course of antibiotics, even if the child feels better before the medication is finished, ensures that all the bacteria are eliminated, reducing the risk of complications and recurrence.

Shortening the antibiotic treatment duration based on symptom improvement can lead to the remaining bacteria developing resistance or persistence, thus worsening the child's condition or leading to further health issues. It's also important to note that while dietary changes may be relevant in some scenarios, increasing dairy intake is not specifically beneficial in managing bacterial throat infections and could cause discomfort in some children. Regular throat testing for recurrence, while potentially useful in certain cases, is not a standard recommendation for uncomplicated cases treated effectively with appropriate antibiotics.