There are a lot of cases of strep throat going around. But strep isn't the only thing that makes people's throats sore here in Mid-Michigan.
Nurse practitioner Christy Idle at McLaren Greater Lansing MMP Health Care Associates is seeing a lot of patients with Viral Pharyngitis.
Unlike strep, which is treated with antibiotics, this infection needs to be ridden out until it goes away on its own.
Sometimes a sore throat comes along with other viral illnesses like a cold, the flu, chicken pox, measles, or mono.
Home remedies include gargling with warm salt water, using a humidifier, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers. As much as it may hurt to swallow, drink lots of liquids too.
See a doctor if the sore throat lasts more than seven to ten days.
Because this is a viral infection, antibiotics will not work against it. But some viruses weaken the immune system enough to allow a bacterial infection to take hold.
The best way to protect yourself is to practice good hygiene. Don't kiss or share utensils, drinking glasses, or towels with someone who has a sore throat.
