Some kids get tonsillitis, or infected tonsils, again and again. A new study found that strep, a germ that causes tonsillitis, can trick the body's immune system. Because of the trick, the body's immune cells kill each other, rather than the germ.

What causes recurrent tonsillitis?

Research from 2018 suggests that chronic and recurrent tonsillitis may be caused by biofilms in the folds of the tonsils. Biofilms are communities of microorganisms with increased antibiotic resistance that can cause repeated infections. Genetics may also be a reason for recurrent tonsillitis.

Why does tonsillitis keep coming back in adults?

What causes tonsillitis in adults? Tonsillitis is most often caused by a virus, but sometimes bacteria may also be to blame. Viruses that can lead to tonsillitis include: influenza virus.