for viral infections generally no antibiotic is needed (unless the infection becomes complicated by a subsequent bacterial infection). most viral infections can be expected to run a four-to-six day course. during this period the child or other infected individuals can be treated with lots of fluids rest and "feel better" medicines that reduce pain and/or fever such as acetaminophen (tylenol tempra liquiprin etc. ) or ibuprofen (motrin advil etc. ). it is important to note that these measures do not treat the viral infection and only provide some relief of the symptoms. these measures can also be helpful in treating the symptoms of bacterial throat infection such as strep throat.
how can viral throat infection be treated?