That is because patients love antibiotics treatments. Doctors may be Hoping for a placebo effect. The abuse of antibiotics is causing big issues but that is another story.
truth be told, me always insist on not having antibiotics, and even chucking them into the bin if given. noted that MO in SAF love to prescribe tetracycline previously, then amoxicillin. don't folks know that Kooning is da bestest mardicen for da body!?!?!
I have not come across a single GP in Singapore who does not prescribe antibiotics for a viral throat infection.
In Australia/NZ, you won't be given antibiotics even if you specifically ask for it unless the doctor deems it necessary as a result of secondary infections.