“What medicine can I take to prevent a throat infection? ”

It would be worthwhile to consult with an otolaryngologist in the situation. The first thing to determine is if you were indeed having two infections or if there’s some other reason for the discomfort in your throat. Just because their discomfort does not necessarily mean it’s an infection. Even if it is an infection, it could be bacterial or viral or even really fungal infection. That’s really the first thing to determine the situation. Depending on the ideology, treatment would be tailored towards this. In the meantime, strict hand washing, avoidance of other people especially anyone with any potential illness, and wearing a mask may be beneficial.

There are no medications available for prevention of a throat infection. Most of these are viral and may happen after exposure to others who have a viral infection. The anti-viral medications such as Tamiflu reduce the symptoms of influenza, but are not usually prescribed for prevention of the flu. Influenza vaccinations may reduce the severity of the disease.

Depends on whether or not you still have tonsils, what your viral/bacterial exposures are, your immune status, smoking status, exposure to airway irritants, etc. If recurring tonsillitis, i.e., 3-4 times a year, a tonsillectomy is probably indicated. If working with children, you are probably having recurring viral infections. Only prevention is to stay away from them, wash hands frequently, and stay out of the line of fire. Best to see an ENT for evaluation and endoscopy.