Known as the "kissing disease," infectious mononucleosis is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. You can only get it once in your life, but if you do get it, it can take several weeks to recover.

• What is mononucleosis?
• How is mono transmitted?
• How is mono treated?

What is mononucleosis?

Mononucleosis (mono) is a viral disease. The Epstein-Barr virus is very common and infects the great majority of people at some point in their lives, but not all people develop symptoms of mononucleosis. Mono is most common in young adults ages 15 to 25.

Symptoms of mono can include some or all of the following:

• High fever


• Headache


• Severe sore throat


• Swollen glands (lymph nodes)
  
• Fatigue


• Muscle aches
  
• Abdominal tenderness

Symptoms usually last two to four weeks, though feelings of fatigue may last longer.

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How is mono transmitted?

The virus that causes mononucleosis is transferred through the saliva, thus the nickname "the kissing disease." You can be exposed to mono by kissing, or by sharing utensils for eating and drinking. The incubation time (how long from the time you are exposed to the time you develop symptoms) is four to six weeks. You are most contagious while you still have a fever.

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How is mono treated?

There is no "cure" for mono. The treatment consists of getting lots of rest, drinking lots of fluids and using medications to help with symptoms, such as throat lozenges for sore throats, and acetaminophen or ibuprofen for headaches and muscle aches. In children under 19, aspirin has been linked to a potentially fatal condition called Reye's syndrome, so you should not take aspirin unless instructed by your doctor.

Included in "getting lots of rest" is avoiding strenuous activities like sports. Your body needs real rest in order to recover quickly. If you have mono, you probably won't feel energetic, and it's important not to push yourself (since doing so can delay your recovery).

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