tonsillitis
by william samuels·
tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils, usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. it's very common in children between 5 and 15 years old. viral tonsillitis clears up on its own; bacterial tonsillitis (often strep throat) may need antibiotics.
contagious
yes
incubation
2–5 days
contagious for
until fever is gone and antibiotics have been taken for 24 hours (if prescribed)
exclusion
exclude until well and at least 24 hours on antibiotics (if bacterial)
symptoms
- •sore throat — may be severe
- •red, swollen tonsils (may have white spots or pus)
- •difficulty or pain when swallowing
- •fever
- •swollen glands in the neck
- •bad breath
- •headache and stomach ache
- •hoarse or muffled voice
when to see a doctor
see your GP or call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) if:
- •sore throat lasting more than 2 days
- •difficulty swallowing or breathing
- •drooling (unable to swallow saliva)
- •high fever that doesn't respond to paracetamol
- •your child can't open their mouth fully
- •recurrent tonsillitis (7+ episodes in a year)
- •you suspect strep throat (very red throat, no cough, fever)
in an emergency, call 000.
home treatment
- •give paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain and fever
- •encourage fluids — cold drinks and ice blocks can soothe the throat
- •soft foods are easier to swallow
- •honey and lemon in warm water for children over 12 months
- •rest and sleep
- •gargling warm salt water may help older children
this guide is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. if you are concerned about your child, see your GP, call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84), or in an emergency call 000.