• Hot or cold fluids Soup or honey and lemon drinks are soothing and reduce
irritation in the throat. Alternatively, jelly or ice creams may be preferred.
• Rehydrate Increase your child's fluid intake —a sore throat can
cause dehydration.
• Offer pain relief Paracetamol or ibuprofen are effective for easing the
pain of an inflamed throat.
• Gargles and lozenges Older children can use throat lozenges or can try
gargling with salty water.
• Professional treatment A sore throat may be due to strep throat (a bacterial
infection) and need treatment from the doctor.
Look out for swollen glands in the neck, a temperature of more than 38.3°C
difficulty in swallowing.