Mononucleosis
Mononucleosis is a viral infection which causes a sore throat, fever, swollen glands and tonsils, weakness and fatigue. Even after the sore throat and fever have subsided, mononucleosis can leave a person feeling exhausted for weeks or in some cases months. Adults usually have an immunity to the virus that causes mononucleosis, the Epstein-Barr virus, so it is most commonly found in adolescents and young adults. If a child gets mononucleosis the symptoms are usually mild.1
Fast Facts
- Alternate names: Kissing disease, mono
- Caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)
- Most common from age 15 to 352
- EBV infects 95% of adults (35-40) in the U.S.1
- Incubation period: 4-6 weeks1
- Duration: Usually about 4 weeks2
- Avoid sports
- No cure, will go away on its own
- Possible complication: Ruptured spleen
- Blood test confirms diagnosis
- Can cause loss of appetite
Symptoms
Transmission
The mononucleosis virus is found in saliva and mucus so it is harder to spread than other types of viruses like a cold. It is most commonly passed through kissing, hence its nickname the kissing disease, though it sometimes can be passed on through other means such as coughing or sharing eating utensils. Normally, a person only gets mononucleosis once, and the body develops an immunity. The symptoms of the disease develop about four to six weeks after exposure.1
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you have mononucleosis, please consult your doctor.
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