Infectious Mononucleosis (or “Mono”) is an illness caused by the Epstein Barr Virus (EBV). 95% of Americans will become infected with EBV at some point. Becoming infected with EBV does not, however, guarantee that a person will develop Mono. If a person is exposed to EBV during adolescence or young adulthood, there is a 35-50% chance that the person will develop Mono. During most other phases of life, exposure to EBV only results in a brief sickness, which is indistinguishable from other mild illnesses.

• The virus that causes Mono is only spread through saliva and mucus.
• Common sources of infection are kissing, sharing beverages, and sharing eating utensils.
• It is not passed through blood, and is not airborne.

While limiting contact with the saliva of others (through minimizing kissing and food and beverage sharing) may help decrease your odds for getting Mono, the virus is almost impossible to prevent. Many people carry EBV without ever having developed Mono. These healthy people can pass on dormant EBV cells, making it possible for those previously unexposed to EBV to become ill with Mono.

• Individuals with mononucleosis usually experience symptoms four to six weeks after being exposed to EBV.
• Sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph glands are all common symptoms.
• Other symptoms include white patches on the back of the throat, loss of appetite and feelings of exhaustion.
• Symptoms last from 4 weeks to 4 months. If they continue beyond 4 months, a chronic EBV infection may be the culprit.
  

Mono cannot be cured, but it will go away on its own. Consequently, there is no specific treatment for Mono except alleviating symptoms. Doctors usually recommend rest and drinking lots of fluids. You should avoid physical activity for three to four weeks after diagnosis to prevent aggravating the spleen (see Complications below). Using throat lozenges and gargling salt water is often recommended to help decrease the sore throat. Taking acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) is suggested to relieve fever. Aspirin is NOT recommended, especially for children, as it has been associated with other, more serious health problems.

A ruptured spleen is a possible, though rare, side effect of Mono. While it is an uncommon occurrence, you should notify your doctor right away if you experience pain in the upper-left portion of your abdomen, light-headedness, rapid heartbeat, trouble breathing, or bleeding more easily than usual. To prevent problems with the spleen, avoid exercise for 3-4 weeks after your diagnosis.