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Print: What causes tonsillitis?
Most cases of tonsillitis are caused by viruses. For example, the virus that causes mononucleosis (called the Epstein-Barr virus) can cause tonsillitis. Tonsillitis is only caused by bacteria in about 15% to 30% of cases. Bacterial tonsillitis is most often caused by a certain type of streptococcus (or “strep”) bacteria. In these cases, the illness may be called “ strep throat.”
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Written by familydoctor.org editorial staff
Reviewed/Updated: 02/11
Created: 08/09
