Prevention of sore throat

Sore throats spread easily, especially viral and strep infections. Simple hygiene habits prevent most of them.

Stop germs spreading

• Wash hands often with soap, especially after coughing, sneezing and before eating.
• Do not share cups, bottles, spoons or towels.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow, and bin tissues at once.
• Stay home when ill with fever, and keep sick children home from school.
• Clean often-touched surfaces when someone at home is ill.

Avoid irritants

• Do not smoke, and avoid second-hand smoke.
• Reduce exposure to dust and strong fumes; use a mask in polluted or dusty places.
• Use a humidifier in very dry rooms.

Care for allergies and reflux

• Treat allergies to reduce postnasal drip.
• Avoid late heavy meals if reflux irritates your throat.

Voice care

• Avoid prolonged shouting; rest your voice when it strains.
• Drink enough water through the day.

General health

• Balanced food, sleep and exercise support immunity.
• A flu vaccine reduces flu-related sore throats.

Children Teach children hand washing and not to share bottles or cups at school. Most sore throats spread in classrooms and daycare.

Ayurvedic view (interpretive) Traditional advice on seasonal routines and avoiding cold exposure fits with general prevention. It is supportive only.

When to see a doctor Frequent sore throats (several a year) may need a check for tonsil problems, allergy or reflux. Call 112 for breathing difficulty.

Remember Hand washing, not sharing utensils and avoiding smoke prevent most sore throats.