Fever, chills and sore throat: what to know

Viral illnesses such as the common cold, influenza or COVID-19 can inflame the throat and trigger a raised temperature with shivering. Strep throat and tonsillitis can also cause marked throat pain, fever and swollen neck glands. Glandular fever may bring pronounced tiredness and swollen glands. Reflux or allergic rhinitis can irritate the throat, although they do not usually explain chills and fever together.

Notice whether you have cough, runny nose, hoarseness, a rash, white patches on the tonsils, difficulty swallowing, or unusual exhaustion. These details help a clinician decide whether an examination or testing is useful.

Rest, drink frequent small amounts of fluid, and choose soft foods or warm drinks if swallowing hurts. Keep the room comfortably cool and wear light layers while you have a fever. Follow the label instructions for any suitable fever or pain medicine, checking with a pharmacist if you are pregnant, treating a child, or taking other medicines. Avoid sharing cups and close face-to-face contact while an infection is possible; wash your hands regularly.

Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, inability to swallow saliva, severe dehydration, confusion, a stiff neck, a seizure, or a rapidly spreading rash. Arrange prompt medical advice if the fever persists, symptoms are worsening, or severe one-sided throat pain makes opening the mouth difficult. Children, older adults, pregnant people, and anyone with reduced immunity may need earlier assessment.

Could my symptoms fit a viral illness or do I need a throat examination? Should I have testing for strep throat or COVID-19? Which medicines are appropriate for my age and health conditions? How should I monitor hydration and fever?