Sore Throat: Is It Contagious?

Tonsillitis is an acute inflammation of the throat, primarily affecting the tonsils (small structures located on either side of the back of the throat) and sometimes the pharynx (the part of the digestive and respiratory systems connecting the mouth to the esophagus and larynx). It manifests as difficulty swallowing, a tingling or burning sensation, and sometimes a fever.

In the vast majority of cases, tonsillitis is caused by a virus or bacteria.

Viral sore throat

Viral tonsillitis occurs when a virus infects the throat and causes painful irritation of the tonsils and pharynx. The viruses most commonly involved are those that cause the common cold, the flu, certain adenoviruses, or the Epstein-Barr virus, but other viral families may also be responsible. This is the most common form. It usually resolves on its own within a few days.

Bacterial tonsillitis

Bacterial tonsillitis or strep throat occurs when bacteria grow in the throat. The main causative agent is the Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes). This form may require antibiotic treatment prescribed by a doctor to limit the risk of complications.

Good to know: Visually, we refer to red throat when the throat is uniformly inflamed, and white strep throat when there are whitish deposits on the tonsils. Both forms can be caused by a virus or bacteria.

How is strep throat spread?

Regardless of the causative agent, transmission most often occurs through:

• Direct contact with an infected person: When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks nearby, they release tiny droplets of saliva into the air that may contain the virus or bacteria responsible for a sore throat. These microdroplets can then reach the mucous membranes of those around them and trigger an infection.

• Contact with contaminated surfaces: Some infectious agents can survive for several hours on everyday objects such as phones, doorknobs, or countertops. Simply touching your mouth, nose, or eyes afterward can be enough to introduce the germ into your body.

• Indoor air in enclosed spaces: In poorly ventilated rooms, viral or bacterial particles remain suspended in the air for longer periods. This situation facilitates transmission, particularly in schools, offices, or public transportation, where many people share the same space.

Factors that contribute to the onset of strep throat

Certain factors increase susceptibility to throat infections:

• A weakened immune system: fatigue, lack of sleep, stress or a period of recovery temporarily reduce the effectiveness of the body’s natural defences. The body then becomes less able to fight off infectious agents in the throat’s mucous membranes.

• Irritating factors: Exposure to dry air, tobacco smoke, or pollution weakens the throat’s mucous membrane. This local irritation compromises the natural protective barrier and facilitates the establishment of viruses or bacteria.

The risk of transmission varies depending on whether the sore throat is viral or bacterial, as well as whether or not treatment is being administered. 

Are viral sore throats contagious?

Yes. The viruses that cause viral sore throats are spread through the air or by direct contact, including via contaminated hands and surfaces. Contagion can begin before symptoms appear and continue throughout the entire period during which the throat is inflamed. Group settings are particularly at risk. Simple measures, such as regular handwashing and the use of disposable tissues, can help limit the spread.

Are bacterial sore throats (strep throat) contagious?

Yes. The bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes is transmitted through saliva droplets when coughing, sneezing or speaking. The risk is high in enclosed spaces (schools, offices, public transportation). With appropriate antibiotic treatment, contagiousness decreases significantly after 24 to 48 hours.

How long is a person with a sore throat contagious?

How long the condition remains contagious depends on both the type of sore throat and whether or not treatment is taken. In the case of viral sore throats, contagion is possible starting a few days before the first symptoms appear and continues until they disappear, which is generally between 5 and 7 days. In the case of bacterial tonsillitis not treated with antibiotics, a person can remain contagious for about a week. However, with appropriate antibiotic treatment, the risk of transmission drops significantly after 24 to 48 hours of taking the medication.

Here is a non-exhaustive list of the most commonly reported symptoms:

• Pain when swallowing: a burning or tingling sensation in the throat.

• Red throat: sometimes accompanied by white spots (white strep throat) or severe inflammation (red strep throat).

• Fever: high temperature, which may exceed 38°C, or no fever at all.

• Swollen neck lymph nodes: the neck lymph nodes (small structures of the immune system) may be tender and swollen.

• General fatigue: tiredness, headaches, chills.

• Cough or runny nose: fairly common in viral tonsillitis.

Throat-Soothing Lozenges

These lozenges combine active ingredients traditionally used to relieve sore throats. Honey, propolis, and marshmallow help soothe irritation, while peppermint and lemon essential oils provide a pleasant cooling sensation. They offer a convenient solution for relieving throat discomfort throughout the day.

Let one lozenge dissolve in your mouth. Take 5 lozenges per day for 7 days.

Precautions: Not intended to replace a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, children under 6 years of age, or people allergic to bee products. Consult a healthcare professional if you have bile duct obstruction (stones), gastroesophageal reflux, or liver or pancreatic disorders. Not recommended for individuals with a history of epilepsy, a history of seizures, or a history of neurological disorders. Do not take at the same time as medications (allow at least a 1-hour interval). Monitor blood pressure in individuals with hypertension. Do not use for prolonged periods. Keep out of reach of children.

Organic Eucalyptus Respire Herbal Tea

The Organic Eucalyptus Respire Herbal Tea combines several plants traditionally used to support respiratory and throat comfort. It contains, in particular, Eucalyptus globulus, Thyme, Sage, Peppermint, Elderflower, and Ginger. This blend of herbs helps purify, cleanse, and clear the respiratory system while providing a soothing sensation during a sore throat. When consumed hot, this tea also helps maintain proper hydration, which is essential during a viral or bacterial infection.

For one cup, we recommend steeping 1 to 2 teaspoons of organic herbal tea in a cup of simmering water. Stir the tea before pouring. Pour the hot water over the herbal blend and let steep for 7 to 13 minutes, depending on your preference.

Precautions: Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women and children.

Organic Propolis

Propolis is a natural substance collected by bees, valued for its traditional use during the winter or in high-risk periods. In the form of a hydroglycerine extract, it can help support the body’s natural defenses and be used preventatively to promote throat comfort, particularly at the first signs of irritation. 

Take 1 pipette (1 ml) per day. Consume undiluted or diluted in a glass of water. The extract can also be mixed with a teaspoon of honey.

Precautions: Keep out of reach of children. Not intended to replace a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Not recommended for people allergic to bee products, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or children under 6 years of age without medical advice. Prolonged use (> 3 weeks) is not recommended.

If you have a sore throat or live with someone who is sick, there are some simple steps you can take to reduce the risk of spreading it to others.

1. Wash your hands regularly: Wash your hands with soap and water several times a day, especially after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing, and before meals.

2. Avoid touching your face: Limiting contact with your mouth, nose, and eyes reduces the risk of introducing infectious agents into your mucous membranes.

3. Use disposable tissues: Blow your nose into disposable tissues and throw them away immediately after use, then wash your hands.

4. Ventilate living spaces regularly: Refreshing the air for a few minutes, several times a day, helps reduce the concentration of viral or bacterial particles in the ambient air.

5. Avoid sharing everyday items: Do not share glasses, cutlery, bottles, towels, or toothbrushes to limit cross-transmission.

6. Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing: use the crook of your elbow or a tissue to trap droplets and protect those around you.

7. Limit close contact during the acute phase: whenever possible, maintain a safe distance from vulnerable people, such as young children, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems.

Check out our DIY recipes to sanitize your environment: 

Natural remedies and dietary supplements are not a substitute for medical care. If you experience severe or persistent symptoms, consult a healthcare professional. Follow the recommended dosages. When antibiotics are prescribed for bacterial tonsillitis, the full course of treatment must be completed to minimise the risk of relapse and further transmission.

If you have a sore throat, remember to drink small amounts of water regularly, even if you aren’t thirsty. This helps keep your throat well-hydrated and supports your body’s natural defense mechanisms. At night, you can sleep with your head slightly elevated to improve breathing comfort and reduce the sensation of a dry or irritated throat upon waking.