Sore throat Sore throat Most sore throats are caused by viruses and may be associated with a cold. About ten percent of sore throats are cased by strep bacteria. A throat culture is the only way to tell the difference between strep throat or another infection. Without treatment, strep throat can produce complications.
Tonsillitis refers to any infection of the tonsils, regardless of the cause.
In children too young to talk, a sore throat may be suspected if they refuse to eat or begin to cry during feedings. Older children will usually tell you if their throat or mouth is sore. Sore throats with viral illnesses usually last three or four days. Strep throat responds well to penicillin. Call a health care professional immediately if your child is drooling, having difficulty swallowing, can't fully open his mouth, or is having difficulty breathing.