Infections mononucleosis, often called “mono” or the “kissing disease,” is a sickness caused by a viral infection, typically the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV). EBV is one of the most common types of human viruses and part of the herpes family.
One in four teens and young adults who contract EBV will go on to develop mono. EBV and the other types of mono-causing infections are usually spread through bodily fluids. According to the CDC, the virus is known to be transmitted through saliva, but can also be spread through blood and semen during sex, blood transfusions, and organ transplants.
Symptoms
The symptoms of mono usually appear around four to six weeks after you get infected by EBV. Symptoms may develop slowly and may not all occur at the same time. These symptoms may include:
- Extreme fatigue
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Headache & body aches
- Swollen lymph nodes in neck and arm pits
- Swollen liver and/or spleen
- Rash
Most people get better in two to four weeks; however, some people may feel fatigued for several more weeks. Occasionally, the symptoms of infectious mononucleosis can last for six months or longer.
Prevention & Treatment
There is no vaccine to protect against infectious mononucleosis. You can help protect yourself by not kissing or sharing drinks, food, or personal items, like toothbrushes, with people who have infectious mononucleosis.
You can help relieve symptoms of infectious mononucleosis by:
- Drinking fluids to stay hydrated (avoid alcohol)
- Getting plenty of rest
- Eat a balanced meal
- Taking over-the-counter medications for pain and fever, as directed by your health care provider
Because your spleen may become enlarged as a result of infectious mononucleosis, you should avoid contact sports until you fully recover. Contact sports can be strenuous and may cause the spleen to rupture.
If you’ve been experiencing mono-like symptoms that do not get better on their own in a week or two, please contact your health care provider.
Hudson Valley Community College’s Health Services at the Wellness Center, located in the Siek Campus Center Suite 270, is here to support you in meeting your health goals. We offer advocacy and care to promote being well and staying well. Feel free to contact our office at (518) 629-7468 or stop in and see us!