My girlfriend and I have never had other sexual partners, and yesterday we engaged in oral sex for the first time. She told me she was feeling a little under the weather before we did so (with a sore throat), but now she has a very sore throat and a high fever. Given that neither of us have ever had any previous partners and the various things that go around this time of year, I think (hope) that this is just a cold, but should we be more concerned?

It appears your girlfriend has an infection given her sore throat and high fever. Viral infections (such as the common cold) are common causes of these infections. However, bacterial infections such as streptococcus pneumoniae (strep throat) may also present in this fashion. In all likelihood, your girlfriend has one of these infections and it should clear within a few days.

However, cases of gonococcal pharyngitis and herpes pharyngitis have been reported in the sexual partners of infected patients. Oral sex may transmit the neisseria gonorrhea bacteria or the herpes virus to the pharynx (throat) of sexual partner which leads to fever and sore throat. If you’re concerned about an STD causing your girlfriend’s symptoms, it is warranted for you both to be tested for STDs. If your girlfriend’s symptoms do not resolve, she should receive a physical exam by her primary care physician to determine the cause of her symptoms and prescribe the appropriate medications.