Mononucleosis

Sept. 10, 2026 | The illness’ name alone conjures up images of embarrassed teen-agers, but infectious mononucleosis, or simply “mono,” can affect children as well as young adults. Mono can be caused by many different viruses. But it is most often caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, or EBV. EBV infections in children usually do not cause symptoms. And when they do, it’s hard to tell the difference between the symptoms of mono and the symptoms of other common childhood illnesses such as the flu. Teens and young adults who get EBV are more likely to have symptoms that are typical of mono. EBV and the other viruses that cause mono are usually spread through body fluids, especially saliva. This means that you can get it through kissing, which is why mono is sometimes called “the kissing disease.” But you can also get these viruses if you share food, drinks, forks, spoons, or lip balm with someone who has mono.

Sept. 10, 2026 | The Epstein-Barr virus that causes mononucleosis is extremely common. In fact, about 95 percent of Americans get this infection by age 35. But not everyone who has the virus develops symptoms of mononucleosis, some people only carry the virus. The symptoms can be mild or severe and tend to come on gradually. Most people develop symptoms four to six weeks after coming in contact with someone who has the Epstein-Barr virus. The symptoms can include extreme fatigue, a fever, a sore throat, a rash and swollen lymph nodes in the neck and armpits. People who’ve been infected will carry the virus for life, even after symptoms stop and even if they had no symptoms. The virus is then “dormant,” or inactive. Sometimes the dormant virus “wakes up” and finds its way into a person’s saliva. This means that they can be contagious from time to time over the course of their life, even when they have no symptoms.

Sept. 10, 2026 | The symptoms of mononucleosis tend to gradually improve in about four weeks although feelings of fatigue can linger for months. Some people miss some school or work as they recover. An enlarged spleen that ruptures is the biggest concern with mono in previously healthy people. This gland in your upper left abdomen helps filter blood. If your spleen bursts, it can bleed into your abdomen. Internal bleeding from a ruptured spleen can be life-threatening and requires emergency surgery. To avoid a ruptured spleen, your health care professional may tell you to avoid strenuous exercise, contact sports and heavy lifting until you feel better. Although you can return to school or work after your fever is gone, you may still feel tired. Your body will tell you when it’s time to rest, so listen to it. By taking good care of yourself and resting as much as you need to, you will soon be back to normal, usually within a few weeks.

Sept. 10, 2026 | If a health-care professional suspects that you may have mononucleosis based on your symptoms, how long they have lasted and a physical examination, they will look for signs like swollen lymph nodes in your neck, swollen tonsils or an enlarged spleen or liver and consider how those signs relate to the symptoms you describe. Blood tests detect antibodies that your body makes to fight the Epstein-Barr virus. Your provider may also check for a high number of white blood cells that indicate infection. Unfortunately, antibiotics don’t work against viral infections such as mononucleosis. Treatment mainly involves taking care of yourself, such as getting enough rest, eating a healthy diet and drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. You may take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to treat a fever. Gargling with salt water and using throat lozenges are a good way to relieve a sore throat.

Sept. 10, 2026 | Mononucleosis can last for weeks, keeping you at home as you recover. But be patient with your body as it fights the infection. For young people, having mononucleosis will mean some missed activities, including classes, team practices and parties. Without a doubt, you’ll need to take it easy for a while. Students need to let their schools know they are recovering from mononucleosis and may need special considerations to keep up with their work. If you have mononucleosis, you don’t necessarily need to be quarantined. Many people are already immune to the Epstein-Barr virus because of exposure as children. But plan on staying home from school or work and other activities until you’re feeling better. And don’t hesitate to seek the help of friends and family as you recover from mononucleosis. College students should also contact the campus student health center staff for assistance or treatment, if necessary.