Infant sore throat: what to know

Babies cannot describe throat pain, so clues include crying during feeds, refusing breast or bottle, drooling, a hoarse cry, or disturbed sleep. A Common Cold, Influenza, COVID-19, or Tonsillitis can irritate the throat. Allergic Rhinitis may cause throat irritation from drainage, while Acid Reflux can cause discomfort after feeds.

Strep Throat is less typical in very young infants than in older children, and symptoms can overlap with viral illnesses. A clinician may examine the throat, ears, hydration, and breathing before deciding whether testing is useful. Do not assume the cause from throat redness alone.

Offer usual breast or formula feeds frequently, in smaller amounts if swallowing seems uncomfortable. Keep the baby upright while awake after feeds, and use only medicines or doses recommended for the infant's age and weight by a clinician or pharmacist. Never give honey to a baby under twelve months, and avoid throat lozenges, numbing sprays, and leftover antibiotics.

Track feeds, wet nappies, temperature, alertness, and any cough or rash. Wash hands and avoid sharing utensils or close contact with people who are unwell. Arrange a medical review if symptoms persist, feeding falls, or the baby seems increasingly uncomfortable.

Seek urgent help if the infant struggles to breathe, cannot swallow fluids or saliva, has blue or grey lips, becomes floppy, or is difficult to wake. Contact a clinician promptly for markedly fewer wet nappies, repeated vomiting, a concerning rash, or a fever in a young infant. A clinician can decide whether the illness fits a Common Cold, Tonsillitis, Strep Throat, or another cause.

Ask what signs suggest dehydration, how to support feeds, and whether the baby's throat, ears, or lungs need examination. Ask whether testing for Strep Throat is appropriate, which pain-relief product and dose are suitable, and when the baby can safely return to normal contact with others.