Sore throats often mark the start of a cold or flu, but can also be due to a localised infection or irritation caused by coughing or mucus running down the back of the throat.

Most sore throats are caused by a virus. However, in about 10 per cent of adults and 30 per cent of children, the cause is a bacterium called Streptococcus.

Sore throat infections are spread from person to person via airborne droplets, hand contact or kissing.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms of a sore throat vary from localised, mild discomfort to intense pain when swallowing. Other symptoms may include:

• Dry throat
• Difficulty swallowing
• Hoarseness or croakiness
• Redness and swelling of the back of the throat
• Tenderness around the jaw and ear or around the front of the throat.

Tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils) usually causes an extremely painful sore throat, along with a fever, headache and general feeling of being unwell.

Refer to the pharmacist if your customer's sore throat is severe or if symptoms have lasted for more than five days.