Ministry of Health:
Public Health Ontario and Choosing Wisely Canada:
Sore Throat
Acute pharyngitis
Acute pharyngitis is an infection of the throat. It can be caused by many different types of viruses and bacteria. It is contagious and can be spread to others in droplets released when a person sneezes or coughs.
The main symptoms are a sore throat, headache, and fever. The condition usually resolves within 7 to 10 days without medication. In some cases, antibiotics may be needed.
More information about sore throat (acute pharyngitis)
Individual cases are not reportable to the Health Unit.
Should one go to childcare, school, or work if the have a sore throat?
Ill individuals should remain home until they do not have a fever, do not develop any new symptoms, and symptoms have been improving for at least 24 hours (48 hours for nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea).
Follow the direction of your healthcare provider or occupational health at your workplace.
Note: Exclusion guidelines may differ for healthcare workers.
Healthcare Provider Information
Choosing Wisely Canada:
- The Cold Standard Toolkit
- Adult Viral Rx template
- Pediatric Viral Rx template
Contact our Communicable Disease Control (CDC) program at 705-474-1400 or toll free at 1-800-563-2808, ext. 5229, or by email to cdc@healthunit.ca for more information.
Last reviewed: July 2026, by CDC