Viral Pharyngitis: This is the most common cause of sore throat and cough, often resulting from upper respiratory tract infections caused by viruses such as rhinovirus, coronavirus, adenovirus, and others. The symptoms typically include a sore throat, cough, runny nose, and sometimes fever.

Acute Bronchitis: Usually caused by a viral infection, acute bronchitis leads to inflammation of the bronchial tubes, resulting in cough and sometimes sore throat. It often follows a cold or other respiratory infection.
Influenza: The flu can cause sore throat, cough, fever, and body aches. It's a common condition, especially during flu season, and can be confirmed with a rapid influenza diagnostic test.
Streptococcal Pharyngitis (Strep Throat): Although less common than viral pharyngitis, strep throat is a significant cause of sore throat and can sometimes be accompanied by a cough. It requires antibiotic treatment to prevent complications.
Allergic Rhinitis: Postnasal drip from allergies can irritate the throat, causing soreness and cough. This condition is more chronic and related to exposure to allergens.

Pertussis (Whooping Cough): A highly contagious bacterial infection that can cause severe coughing fits, often accompanied by a whooping sound. It's crucial to diagnose and treat promptly, especially in infants and young children, to prevent serious complications.
Epiglottitis: A potentially life-threatening condition that causes inflammation of the epiglottis, which can lead to severe sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and cough. It requires immediate medical attention.
Pneumonia: While pneumonia primarily affects the lungs, it can cause cough and, in some cases, sore throat. It's essential to diagnose and treat pneumonia promptly, as it can be severe, especially in vulnerable populations like the elderly and those with compromised immune systems.
Tuberculosis (TB): A chronic bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs but can cause a persistent cough and sometimes sore throat. TB is crucial to diagnose and treat due to its potential for serious complications and public health implications.

Lemierre's Syndrome: A rare condition characterized by a bacterial infection of the throat, which can lead to sore throat, cough, and other severe complications, including sepsis and thrombophlebitis.
Diphtheria: A bacterial infection affecting the membranes of the throat and nose. Although rare in areas with widespread vaccination, it can cause severe sore throat, cough, and other systemic symptoms.
Foreign Body Aspiration: While more common in children, aspiration of a foreign body can cause sudden onset of cough and sometimes sore throat, depending on the location of the object.
Laryngitis: Inflammation of the larynx (voice box) can cause hoarseness, cough, and sometimes sore throat. It's often related to overuse of the voice or viral infections.