What is herpes pharyngitis?

  Herpes pharyngitis is a common childhood infection that occurs in children between the ages of 3 and 10 years, but can occur in any age group. It is usually caused by viruses in the organism that are contagious and very infectious.  Common clinical manifestations include: sudden onset of fever, sore throat, headache, neck pain, enlarged lymph glands, difficulty swallowing, loss of appetite, drooling, and vomiting. Herpes pharyngitis is often spread in kindergartens and schools, and spring and fall are good seasons for herpes pharyngitis. Herpes pharyngitis is usually spread by respiratory droplets and saliva from patients and by close contact. The virus is very contagious because it can survive for a long time in the body.  Usually herpes pharyngitis cannot be treated with antibiotics, which are ineffective in treating the virus. Pain relieving medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be taken to help relieve throat and mouth pain, and it is important to keep the body hydrated during this period.  You need to go to the hospital promptly if the condition is serious, for example: mouth ulcers or sore throat lasting more than five days; symptoms of dehydration such as dry tears, reduced urine volume, decreased urine output and other such symptoms.