Bias in the evaluation of pharyngitis and antibiotic overuse.

v Script 1 (“viral”), for which the complaint was “Since yesterday I have had a headache, fever (around 40°C), sweating, and chills. For several days, I have had a cough and a runny nose. This morning, I felt discomfort in my throat, hoarseness, generalized weakness, and muscle pains, and I took paracetamol.” v Script 2 (“bacterial”), for which the complaint was “Since yesterday, my throat has been painful. I have a headache, fever (temperature up to 39°C), and took paracetamol before coming. My girlfriend said my breath smells bad. She had the same illness several days ago and was told she had a throat infection.” The simulated patient denied cough, nasal discharge, and eye symptoms, if asked.