What Is Mononucleosis (Mono)? Mononucleosis, often called “Mono,” is a viral infection primarily caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). The infection commonly manifests with symptoms like sore throat, fever, and swollen glands. Although it’s most prevalent among teenagers and young adults, it can affect people of all ages.

What Causes Mono?

Mono is primarily caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. However, other viruses like cytomegalovirus (CMV) can also result in Mono-like symptoms. The virus usually spreads through saliva, which has earned it the nickname “the kissing disease.” But don’t be fooled. You can also catch it from shared utensils, coughs, and sneezes.

How Do You Get Infected?

Here are some common ways Mono spreads:

Kissing an infected person
Sharing food, drinks, or utensils
Coming into contact with an infected person’s saliva or mucus

Typical Symptoms

When you’re infected with Mono, you may experience a range of symptoms. Some people might even be asymptomatic, showing no signs of the infection.

What Will You Feel?

Common symptoms include:

Sore throat
Fever
Fatigue
Swollen lymph nodes, especially in the neck and armpits
Loss of appetite
Night sweats

Diagnosis and Tests

When you go to a healthcare provider with Mono-like symptoms, they’ll likely perform a physical exam. To confirm the diagnosis, they may also recommend blood tests.

Blood Tests Involved

Examples of blood tests for Mono include:

Monospot test
Complete blood count (CBC)
Antibody tests

Treatment

Unfortunately, there’s no specific cure for Mono. Treatment generally focuses on relieving symptoms and helping your body fight off the virus.

What Can You Do?

Here are some ways to manage the symptoms:

Get plenty of rest
Stay hydrated by drinking fluids
Use over-the-counter pain relievers to manage fever and sore throat

Potential Complications

In some cases, Mono can lead to complications such as:

Enlarged spleen
Liver inflammation
Anemia

How to Avoid Complications

To minimize risks, it’s crucial to follow the advice of your healthcare provider. For example, you might need to avoid strenuous activities to protect your spleen.

Prevention

Since Mono is highly contagious, taking preventive steps is essential. Here’s what you can do:

Avoid close contact with infected individuals
Don’t share personal items like utensils or toothbrushes
Wash your hands frequently

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there’s no vaccine for Mono. So, prevention primarily relies on good hygiene and avoiding exposure to the virus.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mono Contagious?

Yes, Mono is highly contagious and can spread through various means, including saliva and mucus.

Can You Get Mono More Than Once?

In people with a healthy immune system, the Epstein-Barr virus usually causes Mono only once. However, the virus remains dormant in your body and could potentially reactivate, although this is rare.

How Long Does Mono Last?

The acute symptoms usually last for two to four weeks. However, you may feel fatigued for a few months after the initial symptoms have subsided.

Further Reading: Warning Signs You Could Have Mono