Viral pharygitis is often associated with other systemic symptoms, such as coryza, cough, conjuctivitis, stomatitis, hoarseness/stridor, diarrhea and/or nonspecific rash.  Fever is usually of short duration.

Findings on physical exam may not distinguish between viral and bacterial causes of pharyngitis.  

Common etiologies include rhinovirus, enterovirus, adenovirus, parainfluenza, herpes simplex virus, epstein barr virus and coxsackie virus.

Gereige, R and Cunill- De Sautu, B. Throat Infections. Pediatrics in Review 2011; 32(11): 459-469.

Overview of pharyngitis, peritonsillar abscess, retropharyngeal cellulitis. Very good pictures.

Canadian Paediatric Society Position Statement.  Group A Streptococcal Pharyngitis: A Practical Guide to Diagnosis and Treatment. 2021