All rights reserved. Don't kiss if you feel ill. To prevent this, doctors recommend avoiding contact sports for at least 4 weeks after you start experiencing symptoms or until you fully recover. Some people will have no symptoms when the virus reactivates. Unfortunately, the term "cured" doesn't relate well to mono (mononucleosis) because, once infected, a person seems to be infected with EBV for life as occasional "reactivation" of the virus does occur even in healthy people who show no symptoms. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. . Causes of swollen lymph nodes (glands) may include infection (viral, bacterial, fungal, parasites). The incubation period of primary epstein-barr virus infection: viral dynamics and immunologic events. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The EBV virus can become inactive after infection, and some people reactivate EBV infection even years later. Mono can cause an enlarged spleen. Epstein-Barr virus infection status among first year undergraduate university students. Mono is contagious. Is Mono a STD? 14 FAQs About Symptoms, Duration, Treatment, More And 9 Other Questions, Answered, Can HSV2 Be Transmitted Orally? Your doctor may recommend a heterophile antibody test or monospot test. Ebola Virus Risk: A Global Look at the Effects, Mononucleosis Facts and Statistics: What You Need to Know, A Guide to Viral Rashes in Adults and Children. Epstein-Barr virus and its association with disease - a review of relevance to general practice. It takes a while for mono symptoms (like tiredness, fever, muscle aches, headache, or sore throat) to show up about 12 months, in fact. Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. This care will help to prevent the spleen from rupturing. There is currently no cure for EBV viruses. Sore throat (throat pain) usually is described as pain or discomfort in the throat area. The most common of these are scaly patches of skin and red, itchy bumps or patches all over the place. How Long Do They Last? Certainly. In some cases, the virus may produce a latent infection in the throat, but a person will continue on otherwise healthy. Is the ketogenic diet right for autoimmune conditions? It may take up to 18. Sex without a condom isnt the only way the virus is transmitted. It's difficult to identify who has been infected with mono, especially when the affected individual doesn't show symptoms. Strict quarantines aren't necessary for people with mono, but there are steps everyone can take to help prevent the transmission of mononucleosis. Typical symptoms of the virus tend to occur in teens or young adults. More specifically, it's the amount of virus that can be measured within a standard volume of blood or plasma. Evaluation from a healthcare provider can help diagnose the cause of your sore throat. Most people have been infected with EBV by adulthood. The most common cause of mono is an EBV infection. Mono is most common in young adults and teenagers: It is estimated that at least one out of four teenagers and young adults who get infected with EBV will develop mono. Some people might have mono multiple times. Note: All information is for educational purposes only. Some people only have mild symptoms. Tonsillitis can be caused by acute infection of the tonsils, and several types of bacteria or viruses (for example, strep throat or mononucleosis). But the virus is still contagious for several months after symptoms go. Christopher Bergland is a retired ultra-endurance athlete turned medical writer and science reporter. This means that the virus becomes contagious again. Mono (infectious mononucleosis) is diagnosed with a patient history and physical examination. It's hard to say exactly how long someone with mono is contagious. About 90% of mono cases are the result of EBV, which stays in its inactive form in your body even after you recover. Jen is a wellness contributor at Healthline. While some people may feel their symptoms begin to subside after only 7 days, others may feel sick for up to 4 weeks. People continue to be contagious while symptoms are present, which can last two to four weeks or more. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. Mono, short for infectious mononucleosis, is a contagious infection that can cause fever, sore throat, fatigue, and enlarged lymph nodes in the neck. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 2005 Nov 1;192(9):1505-12. doi:10.1086/491740, Fugl A, Andersen CL. People with mono experience extreme fatigue, fever and body aches. How do you get mono? Antibiotics may be necessary for some cases of sore throat. Are Mono Symptoms Contagious? You can follow her NYC adventures on Twitter and Instagram. Healthcare providers typically diagnose infectious mononucleosis based on symptoms. 2017 Dec 22;8:1867. doi:10.3389/fimmu.2017.01867. Is mono contagious? More than 90% of Americans are infected with it by age 35. To find out if you are infected with mono, you will need to visit your doctor to confirm. Because EBV is so sneaky, infections are common. The majority of individuals who get mono do not require treatment by a physician. HSV-2 is rarely transmitted through oral sex, but that doesn't mean it's impossible. Several Potential Causes Mono may be caused by any one of several different viruses. It's important to note that even people without symptoms can transmit the virus. Older individuals, teenagers, and adults may show symptoms when infected. Mononucleosis: Causes and Risk Factors - Verywell Health At least one out of four teenagers and young adults who get infected with EBV will develop infectious mononucleosis. Research has shown that the incubation period for mono is, on average, anywhere from 32 to 49 days. You may also develop a sinus infection or an infection of your tonsils (tonsillitis). Although it can be classified as an STI, this isnt always the case. Is there anything you can do to prevent mono? When symptoms do appear, they may include: The symptoms may develop slowly and can present at different times during an infection. Individuals who have a weakened immune system, for example, are more at risk of the virus reactivating than those who have a healthy immune system. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a very common viral infection that spreads through saliva and body fluids. The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a common cause of mononucleosis (viral pharyngitis). Sports Health. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is the most common cause of infectious mononucleosis, but other viruses can also cause this disease. Concerning symptoms or worsening symptoms that may warrant a call to your healthcare provider include those that last for more than 10 days and the following: This is not an exhaustive list of symptoms. doi:10.1038/cti.2015.1, Kimura H, Cohen JI. Laboratory tests are not usually needed to diagnose infectious mononucleosis. While some doctors can make an educated guess, mono is typically confirmed through lab testing. Most people get better in two to four weeks; however, some people may feel fatigued for several more weeks. Most people who are infected with EBV don't actually develop mono. Taking precautions to avoid coming into contact with infected saliva is the best way to reduce your risk of . People sometimes refer to mono as glandular fever. However, mono-causing EBV can also spread through saliva-contaminated food utensils, used straws, and shared drinking glasses or toothbrushes. Mono can last for a few weeks or several months and spreads mostly through saliva. Epstein-Barr virus and infectious mononucleosis. nodi-Nagy K, Kiny , Meszes A, Garaczi E, Kemny L, Bata-Csrg Z.Amoxicillin rash in patients with infectious mononucleosis: evidence of true drug sensitization. Infectious mononucleosis, also called "mono," is a contagious disease. Article: Is Mono Contagious? - BASS Medical Group Mono is contagious. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Mono is more common in teenagers and young . People with mono can prevent the virus from spreading by avoiding kissing or the sharing objects that touch the mouth, such as a toothbrush. Summary. An estimated 85 to 90 percent of American adults develop antibodies to the virus by age 40, which essentially means theyve come in contact with the virus at some point in their lives. How to Prevent the Transmission of Mononucleosis - Verywell Health If so, you may need treatment with antibiotics for these accompanying bacterial infections. Typical symptoms of infectious mononucleosis usually appear four to six weeks after you get infected with EBV. How Long Is Mononucleosis (Mono) Contagious? In some cases, it could be contagious for up to 18 months. This means that if youre having sex without a condom, the virus could be transmitted from one person to another. Pharyngitis is a contagious infection that can spread from one person to another. Is Mono Contagious? What to Know - K Health This time before symptoms is referred to as the incubation period. Even researchers. From start to finish, mono lasts for months. EBV is a kind of herpes virus. Learn about causes, symptoms, and treatment. It is usually not spread by airborne droplets (it can be in some instances when saliva is sprayed and then inhaled) but by direct contact with an infected person's saliva. bacterial infections, viral infections, toxins, irritants, This can mean genital secretions from sexual contact, blood, and saliva. Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. A full recovery from mono can take upwards of six months, but the most severe symptoms, experienced during the acute phase, typically last two to six weeks. Beyond this, if you think you may be experiencing symptoms of mono, make sure you give your body plenty of rest and hydrate regularly. infectious disease health center/infectious disease a-z list/is mononucleosis (mono) contagious article. How long is mono contagious? You can spread it for several weeks before Mono that you get more than once or recurrently is called chronic mono or chronic active Epstein-Barr virus infection (CAEBV). Mononucleosis Facts and Statistics: What You Need to Know. Treatment focuses on reducing the severity of the symptoms and signs. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), also known as human herpesvirus 4, is a member of the herpes virus family. Commonly called "the kissing . This means drinking lots of fluids, taking over-the-counter medications to relieve fever or pain, and getting lots of rest. Although mono is contagious, it is spread primarily through contact with saliva of an infected person. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), some people with mono may even deal with symptoms for up to six months after they first contracted the virus. Terms of Use. You can help protect yourself by not kissing or sharing drinks, food, or personal items, like toothbrushes, with people who have infectious mononucleosis. Less commonly, it can also be caused by other viruses like the cytomegalovirus (CMV). The majority of people who catch "the kissing disease" don't experience secondary complications and make a full recovery. A person can also spread the infection while they're showing symptoms. Many people wonder just how contagious it really is, thoughand for how long an infected person remains contagious and able to spread the disease. Peter Dazeley/Getty Images Mono is a highly contagious illness, which means you can spread it easily to others. If you do have mono, your provider may suggest you avoid sports. The Boston Public Health Commission. Mononucleosis (Mono): Symptoms, Treatment & Diagnosis - Cleveland Clinic 1996-2023 WebMD, LLC. Taking measures to improve your overall health and well-being may also provide a boost to your immune system, making your body better equipped to handle the virus. These can transmit through coughing, sex, and birth, Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. Front Immunol. saltwater gargle, slippery elm throat lozenges, sipping warm beverages and The treatment of swollen lymph nodes depends upon the cause. "Of the 8 human herpes viruses, four can be sexually transmitted. They will likely order tests to make sure that another infection isn't to blame for your symptoms. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Mononucleosis (Mono) (for Teens) - Nemours KidsHealth Commonly called the kissing disease, mono often affects adolescents and young adults. People who take antiviral medication to treat mono may recover quicker, but the evidence is not conclusive. The most common cause of mono (infectious mononucleosis) is the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Learn what causes mono and how. Find out what to expect and what the results mean. While mono can be transmitted through sexual contact, it is not strictly a sexually transmitted disease. Journal of American College Health. For example, you could have a fever at one point and then a sore throat after the fever has subsided. For example, it may spread through: It is difficult to prevent the spread of EBV. Treatment of tonsillitis and adenoids include antibiotics, over-the-counter To test for a mono infection, a doctor will likely use either a Monospot test or an EBV antibody test. 2012 Feb;2012(4):23-28. doi:10.2147/vaat.s17837. Can You Get an STI from a Hand Job? Many people refer to the infection as its nickname, the kissing disease, because it is most commonly passed from person to person through saliva. Because your spleen may become enlarged as a result of infectious mononucleosis, you should avoid contact sports until you fully recover. In very rare cases, participating in contact sports can cause the spleen to rupture, which is life-threatening emergency. Research has shown that following the initial transmission of the virus, viral loads were found in both the mouth and the blood before any symptoms appeared. Simple, right? Common symptoms of a sore throat include a fever, cough, runny nose, hoarseness, earaches, sneezing, and body aches. People may notice symptoms 46 weeks after contracting EBV. Table of Contents View All Incubation Prodrome Stage Acute Stage Convalescent Stage Treatment There are three stages of mono ( mononucleosis ): Prodrome stage, when symptoms start Acute stage, when you feel the worst Convalescent stage, when you begin to recover The infection is common among teenagers and young adults. In some cases, it could be contagious for up to 18 months. His work has been published by The Atlantic,The Paris Review, CBS News, The TODAY Show, Barron's PENTA,Engadget and Healthline,among others. So there's a very small chance that people who have had mono in the past can pass it to others, even when they feel OK. Can You Treat Mono, and How Long Does It Last? Infectious mononucleosis. In fact, roommates of people who have mono have no greater chance of getting mono than anyone else on campus. The blood work of patients who have infectious mononucleosis due to EBV infection may show, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Treatment for an enlarged spleen depends upon the cause. Epsteinbarr virus and infectious mononucleosis: what students can teach us. Mono (mononucleosis) is spread from person to person. 2017 Dec 22;8:1867. doi:10.3389/fimmu.2017.01867, Kuri A, Jacobs BM, Vickaryous N, et al. Although a fever technically is any body temperature above the normal of 98.6 F (37 C), in practice, a person is usually not considered to have a significant fever until the temperature is above 100.4 F (38 C). Mononucleosis is an infectious condition caused by viral infections. Prevention Steps Since EBV is transmitted through close contact with others, the best way to prevent infection is by doing the following: Avoid anyone you know who has mono. Treatment for mono (infectious mononucleosis) is aimed at relief of symptoms. Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. Center for Medical Simulation & Innovative Education, Cores, Shared Resources & Support Offices, Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research. People can transmit EBV to others through saliva. J Infect Dis. The virus can be transmitted through sexual contact, but its most often transmitted through saliva. The larger the viral load, the more contagious a virus is. prevent the transmission of mononucleosis, Epstein-Barr virus and infectious mononucleosis. Infectious mononucleosis (also known as "mono" or the "kissing disease") is a fairly common viral disease that usually affects adolescents and young adults, including college students. The virus can spread through other bodily fluids. eMedicineHealth does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. For some, the fatigue may last longer, up to six months after getting sick. 2015;313(11):1180. doi:10.1001/jama.2015.159, Dunmire SK, Hogquist KA, Balfour HH. If your symptoms are particularly severe or last for longer than 10 days, you should see a healthcare provider. There is no vaccine to protect you against mono, and people can spread it before they know they have the illness.
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