A new season is the time for new experiences and memories — and, if you’ve been on TikTok, the time to find yourself rotting in bed after contracting a mysterious, flu-like sickness. On the app, users have been sharing their experiences with what they’re calling “the 2025 throat virus,” and yeah, it’s just as gnarly as it sounds. (Move over, frat flu!)
Categorized as the feeling of “razor blades” in your throat and other flu-like symptoms, the conversation around the 2025 throat virus has been spreading faster than fire — or in this case, germs. Thousands of users have taken to the app to document living with the sickness, sharing their symptoms (sore throat, body aches, and dizziness, amongst other things) and bringing attention to the mysterious virus that seems to be everywhere right now. One user, @nayelipinero, even shared that they’ve been experiencing the 2025 throat virus for over two weeks at this point. Oof.
But, what is the 2025 throat virus actually? How do you fight it? And, most importantly, how can you prevent yourself from catching it? I got all the insight from Dr. Don Beasley, an otolaryngologist (ENT) with over 20 years of experience, about the illness. (Oh, and here’s a reminder ot start washing your hands.)
What is “the 2025 throat virus”?
If you’re wigging out about this being some kind of new, wild illness, fear not. The viral (no pun intended!) sickness likely stems from common infections like the flu or the common cold. “[People on TikTok] are reporting sore throats (some say very painful like they swallowed razor blades), painful swallowing, swollen glands, congestion, low-grade fever, fatigue, and post-nasal drip — some also mention a cough,” Beasley says. “These symptoms are quite commonly connected to normal illnesses, so these aren’t extremely unique. Social media tends to label everything as a new virus that hasn’t existed before, but most of these cases fall under the usual seasonal illnesses.”
Additionally, the 2025 throat virus could also be an indicator of Streptococcus, or strep throat. “If the sore throat comes with white patches on the tonsils, high fever, or severe pain, strep throat could be a possibility,” Beasely adds.
However, if the symptoms last more than five days without improvement, and especially if things get worse, Beasley recommends getting checked out by a doctor. In many cases, they’ll be able to prescribe you an antibiotic or another medication that can help you get back on track with your health. “If someone develops severe throat pain, has difficulty swallowing, holds a persistent fever, is short of breath, or notices swelling of the throat or neck, seek help,” Beasely says. “These can signal bacterial infections, tonsillitis, or sinus-related complications that may require medical treatment.”
You Can treat some throat virus symptoms at home.
If you feel a sore throat coming on, there are a couple of things you can do to alleviate your symptoms. “At home, if you feel like you don’t need to see a doctor, you should be able to find relief with warm salt-water gargles, over-the-counter pain relievers, throat lozenges, and an abundance of liquids,” Beasely says.
Things like hot ginger tea, ibuprofen, and brothy soups can do wonders when you’re sick. However, Beasley reiterates that if your symptoms persist, get worse, or become unmanageable, to go to an urgent care or seek a medical professional immediately.
tips to prevent “the 2025 throat virus”
While getting sick is common, especially on college campuses, there are a few things Beasley recommends doing to prevent catching viruses: frequent handwashing, not sharing drinks or vapes, staying hydrated, and getting adequate sleep. “Crowded dorms and classrooms increase exposure, so basic prevention goes a long way,” he adds.
And sorry to be a bummer, but that probably means skipping out on a party or two in the meantime. “If something is going across your college campus, I recommend you take it easy and not be among large groups if you can,” Beasely says. ‘Tis the season for a chill kickback, maybe?