01/08/2026
A sore throat caused by a cold or the flu comes on gradually and typically goes away within one week. Home remedies such as drinking hot tea with honey, gargling salt water and taking over-the-counter medications can help alleviate sore throat pain caused by these illnesses. A sore throat caused by strep, a bacterial infection, is sudden and symptoms include white patches on red and swollen tonsils, fever and headache. A provider can test for strep and prescribe antibiotics for the infection. Protect yourself from all three illnesses this winter by staying away from people who are sick, avoid sharing eating utensils and drinks, washing your hands and keeping them away from your face.
