Viral pharyngitis is inflammation of the pharynx caused by one of many viral pathogens.

Some viruses responsible for pharyngitis include rhinovirus, adenovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, herpes simplex virus, influenza virus, parainfluenza virus, coronavirus, enterovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, cytomegalovirus, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Common symptoms include sore throat, fever, and upper respiratory tract symptoms. Certain signs and symptoms are more suggestive of a viral (rather than bacterial) pharyngitis including conjunctivitis, coryza, cough, diarrhea, or discrete ulcerative lesions.

There is wide overlap between the symptoms caused by different viral pathogens, and there is also significant overlap with symptoms caused by bacterial pathogens. In clinical settings, it is not typically possible to identify the pathogen causing pharyngitis based on symptoms and exam alone.

This condition affects both children and adults, but it is more common in children.