Mononucleosis or mono is a contagious viral illness caused by the Epstein - Barr virus (EBV). This infection is typically recognized in high school and college students. Most adults have been exposed to EBV by age 18 years and are immune.
Symptoms of mononucleosis include fever, sore throat, swollen lymph glands in the neck and fatigue. Sometimes the spleen becomes enlarged and there is resulting abdominal pain. Symptoms generally resolve in 1-2 months and seldom last for more than 4 months. When symptoms persist for more than 6 months it is frequently referred to as chronic EBV infection. Infants and young children frequently have asymptomatic, unrecognized infection with EBV.
Mononucleosis is spread person to person by direct contact with saliva from the mouth and throat of infected persons. Kissing promotes spread among young adults. Young children may become infected by indirect contact with saliva on toys, chairs, etc. Following infection, persons are contagious for prolonged periods of many months to a year or more. The EBV remains dormant in the body for life. Periodically the virus can reactivate and be found in an individual's saliva. This usually occurs without symptoms of illness but still can be a source of infection to others.
The time between exposure to the virus and development of symptoms (incubation period) is 4-6 weeks.
Since this is a viral illness there is no specific treatment, or medication to take. Provide ample opportunity for rest and drink plenty of fluids if fever is present. Avoid strenuous exercise-especially contact sports. The doctor may suggest something, such as non- aspirin products, to lessen symptoms. Mononucleosis ordinarily resolves on its own in one or two months.
Practice careful and frequent hand washing and respiratory hygiene (cover coughs and sneezes and dispose of used tissues) to help minimize transmission from both symptomatic and asymptomatic infected persons. Do not share food, drinks, straws, water bottles or other eating utensils. Do not allow children to share toys that can be put in their mouths. Mouthed objects should be removed from the play area and sanitized.
Exclusion from school is not necessary unless the symptoms limit participation. In this case children should remain excluded until well enough to actively and comfortably participate. Due to the risk of rupture of the spleen, contact sports should be avoided until permission is given by the primary care provider.
