In addition to the specific causes of a sore throat, there are certain types of sore throat to look out for. These include: Pharyngitis – an upper respiratory infection caused by a virus. Laryngitis – viral infection of the voice box. Tonsilitis – inflammation or bacterial infection of the tonsils. Epiglottitis – inflammation or bacterial infection of the epiglottis. Uvulitis – inflammation or bacterial infection of the uvula