Sore throats are common at any age and can be one of the first signs of another illness, like a cold, the flu, or mononucleosis. They also can be caused by a strep throat infection, although this is rare in children younger than 2 years old.

 

 

 

Signs and Symptoms

• painful throat
• fever
• swollen glands in the neck
• bad breath
• scratchiness in the throat
• redness in the back of the mouth

 

What to Do

Here are some ways kids can relieve sore throat pain:

• sip warm liquids
• eat cold or frozen liquids (such as ice pops)
• gargle with saltwater
• suck on hard candy or throat lozenges (for kids age 4 or older)
• take ibuprofenor acetaminophen as needed

 

Seek Medical Care

If Your Child:

• has difficulty swallowing or breathing
• is drooling (in a young child)
• tires easily
• has pus in the back of the throat
• has a sore throat that lasts longer than a week

 

Think Prevention!

As with most common illnesses, preventing a sore throat starts with regular hand washing. Kids also can avoid sore throats by:

• not sharing food utensils and glasses with others
• avoiding contact with people who have sore throats