Tonsillitis - Prevention

The bacteria and viruses that cause tonsillitis are easily transmitted from person to person. The infection often spreads quickly among members of a family or students in a classroom. Avoiding contact with anyone who has the symptoms of tonsillitis can reduce the risk of infection.

Drinking glasses and eating utensils should never be shared. A person who has had tonsillitis should throw out his or her toothbrush to avoid reinfection. People who are caring for a person with tonsillitis should take special precautions and wash their hands often to prevent spreading the infection to other people.