What should you know about RSV sore throat?

RSV can irritate the throat through inflammation, coughing, mouth breathing, and mucus drainage. It commonly appears with a runny or blocked nose, cough, hoarseness, tiredness, or fever. A sore throat does not show which infection is present. Other possibilities include [Common Cold](/conditions/common-cold/), [Influenza](/conditions/influenza/), [Tonsillitis](/conditions/tonsillitis/), or [Strep Throat](/conditions/strep-throat/). Reflux and nasal allergies can also irritate the throat without causing a respiratory infection.

Offer cool or warm fluids according to preference and choose soft foods if eating hurts. Encourage rest and avoid smoke or strongly scented products. Saline nasal care may reduce mouth breathing when congestion is present. Use age-appropriate pain or fever medicine only as directed, checking the label and any existing medical advice. Do not give honey to infants. Handwashing and not sharing cups can reduce spread of respiratory germs.

Seek emergency help for difficulty breathing, blue or grey lips, drooling with inability to swallow, a muffled voice, severe swelling, or unusual difficulty waking. Arrange prompt assessment when fluids are hard to maintain, urine is much less frequent, pain is severe or worsening, or symptoms are accompanied by a concerning rash. A clinician may examine the throat and breathing and decide whether testing or treatment is needed.

Ask whether the throat appearance and accompanying symptoms fit a viral illness, how to maintain fluids, and which pain relief is suitable. Mention exposure to unwell contacts, cough and congestion, fever, rash, swallowing ability, and how long symptoms have lasted.