Mononucleosis, also known as the kissing disease, is one of the most common types of infection in the United States, and it’s estimated that as much as 80 percent of adults have (or will) experience the condition during their lifetime. Infectious mononucleosis can show symptoms for most people – though might have added consequences for anyone who has a compromised immune system. Here’s what to know about the warning signs, symptoms, and potential causes of infectious mononucleosis (or mono).
What are the Warning Signs of Infectious Mononucleosis?
What is Mono?
Infectious Mononucleosis is a type of viral infection that can be spread by the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
This is a subtype of herpes disease, which is often notoriously spread through kissing – hence the nickname kissing disease. However, kissing isn’t the only way to contract the condition. Any contact with the spit or mucus of an infected person could mean that you get mono.
Young children and young adults are most susceptible to the symptoms and consequences of mono. However, the infection can also affect adults, especially when their immune system is already compromised by another chronic or acute condition.
Is There a Vaccine to Protect Against Infectious Mononucleosis?
No current vaccine for infectious mononucleosis is available, but, mono symptoms can be suppressed with over-the-counter medications when there’s an active flare-up.
What Causes Infectious Mononucleosis?
The majority of infectious mononucleosis cases are caused by the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), a subtype of the various herpes viruses. Exposure to the Epstein-Barr virus can trigger infectious mononucleosis. Other conditions can also trigger its symptoms.
Any direct exposure to the saliva or mucus of someone who has the condition could spread its symptoms.
Can Other People Get Mono If I Have It?
Yes, anyone exposed to the saliva or mucus of someone with an active infectious mono-infection could contract the condition from someone who is carrying the virus.
The best course of action is to avoid kissing, sharing mugs or utensils, and sharing drinks and personal items until the infection has been treated.
How Can I Be Sure that it’s Mono?
The only way to confirm that you have infectious mononucleosis and not something with similar symptoms is to get tested. A blood test can tell whether or not specific antibodies are present.
Symptoms should be confirmed with a medical professional. Never rely purely on the internet as a means of medical diagnosis.
What are the Symptoms of Infectious Mononucleosis?
The common symptoms of infectious mononucleosis are sore throat, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, swollen tonsils, fatigue or malaise, and fever. Swollen liver or enlarged spleen are less common symptoms. However, for some, their liver or spleen remains enlarged and symptoms of fatigue may remain for 2-4 weeks.
Inactive mononucleosis or Epstein-Barr might be symptomatic, and you might not show the same symptoms as everyone else.
The symptoms of a mono infection resemble other conditions like the common flu.
How do you get Infectious Mononucleosis?
Infectious mononucleosis occurs through direct contact with an infected person, either by sharing saliva intentionally or accidentally (e.g. by coughing). Usually, it is caused by the Epstein-Barr Virus, although can also have other causes.
An active infection with symptoms can be triggered if you already have it, but show no symptoms until the virus resurfaces due to low immunity.
In rare cases, mono has been transmitted by blood transfusion and sexual contact.
How Many People Have Infectious Mononucleosis?
About 85 to 90 percent of Americans will contract some form of infectious mono during their lifetime, according to Cleveland Clinic. This makes it one of the most common types of infections in the United States. As a result, it is often mistaken for simple colds and flu.
How to Treat Mono
Infectious mono can be treated by suppressing the condition’s symptoms with medication. This builds the immunity to further combat the symptoms of an active infection. The most common treatment for mono is rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications to treat the symptoms.
In some cases, antibiotics will be prescribed by a doctor. Antibiotics such as ampicillin or amoxicillin are usually prescribed if the patient has both strep throat and mono.
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