If your doctor thinks you may have mono, he or she will probably do a blood test. If your sore throat is caused by Streptococcus, your family doctor will probably prescribe penicillin, taken by mouth for 10 days. Another antibiotic, called erythromycin, can be used if you're allergic to penicillin. If your sore throat is caused by a different bacteria, your doctor may prescribe another type of antibiotic. Antibiotics don't work against viruses.
Infections caused by viruses usually just have to run their course.
Most symptoms caused by a cold-type virus go away in a week to 10 days. Symptoms caused by mono can last for 4 weeks or more. If you have mono, your doctor will probably suggest that you get plenty of rest and that you not exercise too hard. The best ways to avoid catching or passing the viruses and bacteria that can lead to a sore throat are to wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your eyes or mouth, and cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing. Easing the pain of a sore throat Take acetaminophen, ibuprofen or naproxen.