Now, what is Viral Pharyngitis? Is it some sort of virus causing some respiratory inflammation or what? How can one catch it? 

Actually, it is another name given to sore throat. Chronic Sore throat may be further classified into following categories:

1. Viral Pharyngitis (Viral Sore Throat)

2. Bacterial Sore Throat

1. Viral Pharyngitis:  90-95% of all sore throats are caused by Viruses like Cold and Flu virus, Adenoviruses etc. However, the most severe of this entire virus is the Coxsackie virus that causes a disease called herpangina also called summer sore throat which is very common among children.

Mononucleosis, also known as Pfeiffer's disease, mono (in North America) and commonly known as glandular fever in other English-speaking countries, is very common among adolescents. It is also called as the Kissing disease.

According to an estimate, about 85-90 % of Americans will supposedly become prone to mononucleosis when they reach the age of 35-40 years.

2. Bacterial Sore Throat: Bacterial Sore Throat is also called as strep throat or GABHS Pharyngitis. The acronym GABH stands for Group A Beta-Hemolytic Streptococci. Though there is least chance of a bacterial infection but if infected one must consult a doctor right away as there are chances of heart damage.