Pharyngitis is most commonly caused by viral infections such as the common cold, influenza, or mononucleosis. Viral infections don't respond to antibiotics, and treatment is only necessary to help relieve symptoms. Less commonly, pharyngitis is caused by a bacterial infection.

Can viral pharyngitis last for months?

Acute pharyngitis is a sore throat that appears and can last up to a month before fully resolved. It is usually the result of infection – viral, bacterial, or rarely fungal (candida yeast).

How long does a viral pharyngitis last?

Viral pharyngitis often goes away in five to seven days. If you have bacterial pharyngitis, you will feel better after you have taken antibiotics for two to three days. You must take your antibiotic even when you are feeling better.