A sore throat is a condition of pain and scratchiness in the throat typically caused by other illnesses or conditions, such as viral or bacterial infections. Sore throats are more common in children between the ages of 4 and 7 years than in any other age group. The condition is uncommon in children less than 1 year of age.

Viral infections are the most common source of sore throats in young children. These include colds, influenza, measles, mumps, chickenpox, croup and mononucleosis.

Bacterial infections also can lead to sore throats. These include strep throat, tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils located at the back of each side of the mouth) and diphtheria (respiratory disease that causes breathing difficulties and painful swallowing).

A number of other factors can cause sore throats. They include allergies, breathing in polluted or dry air, overusing the voice and tumors.

The discomfort associated with a sore throat can be reduced by taking a non-aspirin pain reliever as recommended by a physician. Children also may find relief from gargling with salt water, sucking on a throat lozenge, eating popsicles, drinking plenty of liquids (such as water, soups and broths) and having a humidifier in the bedroom to keep the air moist.

The sore throat itself will not completely disappear until the underlying condition resolves. In the case of a viral infection, the illness will gradually fade without treatment over a number of days. Bacterial infections are treated with antibiotics. In some cases, the cause of sore throat must be treated with surgery. For example, severe cases of tonsillitis may require removal of the tonsils (tonsillectomy).

The chief method to prevent sore throats is to avoid getting sick by practicing good hygiene (e.g., regular handwashing) and avoiding contact with people who are sick.

Parents generally are urged to have a physician, preferably a pediatrician, examine the child if a sore throat is severe or persistent for a few days, or is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, blood in saliva or mucus, or significant fatigue. The condition may last less than 24 hours and does not usually persist for more than five days.