Prevention of throat infection

Block the spread of viruses and strep:

Handwashing with soap, especially before eating and after nose-blowing, coughing or being in crowds - the single most effective habit.
Keep distance from sick people where possible; anyone with a sore throat should cover coughs and sneezes (elbow or tissue), and tissues go straight to the bin.
Do not share drinking glasses, bottles, spoons, towels or toothbrushes - strep and viruses travel on them.
Replace the toothbrush after a strep infection resolves, and complete the antibiotic course so the bacteria is truly cleared.
Children: teach hand hygiene early; keep children with fever or strep home from school until fever-free and (for strep) at least 12-24 hours into antibiotics.

Reduce irritation that invites and mimics infection:

No tobacco smoke - active or passive; smoke damages the throat's defenses and children in smoky homes get more throat and ear infections.
Mask up in heavy pollution and on high-dust days.
Manage allergies - controlling stops the post-nasal drip that chronically irritates the throat.

Introductory Summary