A sore throat can be caused by an infection due to a virus or bacteria. Most of the time a sore throat is part of a viral illness like a cold. Less often, it can be due to a strep infection. Antibiotics can cure strep throat because it is a bacterial infection. However, antibiotics will not work for sore throats from colds or the flu.
- Sore throat, bright red tonsils, pus on the tonsils, fever, and swollen glands in the neck. Sometimes kids can get a sandpaper-like rash. Kids with strep throat usually do not have other cold symptoms like runny nose and cough.
- Ask your doctor if your child needs a strep test before any antibiotics are prescribed for a sore throat.
- If your child is given an antibiotic for strep throat, make sure he takes all the medicine as directed - even after the sore throat gets better.
Here is what to do when your child has a sore throat AND a runny nose or cold:
- He probably has a cold caused by a virus.
- Make sure your child gets plenty of rest and fluids to drink.
- Children ages 8 and up can gargle with salt water. Mix 1/2 of a teaspoon of salt in an 8 ounce glass of warm water.
- Acetaminophen (like Tylenol) may be used for fever.
- Contact the doctor if your child is not better within one week or if any signs listed below develop.
Call the doctor if your child has a sore throat and develops any of these signs:
- Trouble breathing, drooling, or throat pain that keeps getting worse
- Red or sore joints
- A sandpaper-like rash
- Pus on the tonsils
- Ear pain
Remember, antibiotics can cure strep throat. But antibiotics won't work for infections caused by viruses!
"Use Antibiotics Wisely" is an educational program sponsored by the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Revised May 16, 2006
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