What is mono?
Mono is a common illness caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It is more common in older children and young adults, but can occur at any age.
How is mono spread?
Mono is spread through intimate (close) contact with the saliva of an infected person. For example, through:
- kissing
- sharing cups, utensils, or food
What are the symptoms of mono?
Some people have mild or no symptoms. The symptoms of mono may be the same as many other illnesses such as colds or strep throat. The most common symptoms include:
- fever
- sore throat
- tiredness
- weakness
- dizziness
- headache
- aching joints
- loss of appetite
- stomach tenderness
- swollen lymph glands (e.g., in the neck, underarms and groin)
Less common symptoms include:
- jaundice
- rash
- sensitivity to light
See a doctor if you have the above symptoms. Mono is diagnosed by a blood test. Mono tests include the Monspot test, which is used to detect a recent mono infection. This test may not become positive until 2 to 9 weeks after a person is infected. False-negative results may be obtained in 10-15 percent of cases, mostly in children less than 10 years of age. A different blood test to detect antibodies specific to the EBV may remain positive for months to years and can be used to measure recent infection or infection in the past.
How long does mono last?
The first symptoms appear 4-6 weeks after contact with mono. Symptoms generally last from one to several weeks, but some people can take months to regain their former energy level. Fifteen to twenty percent of people with mono may become "carriers" of the virus and may spread it to others for a year or more. People with mono may return to normal activities in day care, school or work as soon as they feel well enough. Mono rarely causes death.
How is mono treated?
There is no specific treatment for mono, but to ease symptoms:
- eat healthy and drink lots of fluids
- rest
- gargle with salt water to help throat pain
- take pain or fever medicine as needed (Aspirin is not recommended for children)
Avoid contact sports until recovered and your doctor has said you can return to sports (usually 6-8 weeks), to avoid injury to the spleen.
How is mono prevented?
Ways to prevent mono include:
- not sharing drinks, dishes, or eating utensils with someone who has mono
- washing your hands often
