WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT... a sore throat?

Telling viral and bacterial infections apart is the key to treating your sore throat. “Some 90% of sore throats are caused by viruses and don’t require antibiotics, so it’s important to be able to tell the difference,” says consultant virologist Dr Chris Smith for Covonia.

“One tell-tale sign that an upper respiratory infection is caused by a virus is the presence of a runny nose, as bacterial infections very rarely do this,” he adds.

Viral infections can be eased by gargling with warm, salty water, or sucking ice cubes or ice lollies to numb the throat, the NHS advises.

But you should watch out for swollen and red tonsils, which could be a sign of a bacterial infection.

“Look out for white spots on the tonsils, a red tongue, fever and swollen neck glands.

“Some bacteria can also cause a red skin rash known as scarlet fever,” Dr Smith says.

If you do have these symptoms, you should see your GP who may prescribe antibiotics.