Mononucleosis is a disease caused by the Epstein Barr virus. It is most common in older teens, though young adults and children can also contract it. It is sometimes called the “kissing disease,” since primary means of contraction is through contact with an infected person’s saliva. This does not necessarily mean one has to kiss someone else to get it. Actually more common transmission is through sharing food or drinks with someone who has the Epstein Barr virus but is not exhibiting any symptoms.

The most common effects of mononucleosis are extreme exhaustion, very sore throat, swollen or painful glands, and chills or fever. In young children these effects may be very minor. Some cases will also exhibit swelling of the spleen, which can also cause significant stomach pain. The primary symptoms of mononucleosis tend to last for about three to four weeks. Strep throat is also often present.

These symptoms are caused by an increase of leukocytes, white blood cells. Often when blood is taken, clinical tests reveal atypical leukocytes that usually suggest the presence of mononucleosis. Tests for Epstein Barr may also be performed, but even after one has had an active case of mononucleosis, they will show the presence of Epstein Barr immunities. Long after a case of the illness, people may still be vectors for Epstein Barr.

The fact that one is still possibly contagious after contracting mononucleosis is not as scary as it sounds. Almost everyone is exposed to Epstein Barr repeatedly throughout life. Scientists estimate an exposure rate for most people at about 80-90%. Not all who have Epstein Barr antibodies will get mononucleosis. Current research suggests that times of extreme stress or overwork may make one more susceptible to a full-blown case of mononucleosis, and that exposure may have occurred many years prior. In most cases children with mononucleosis are never diagnosed unless they exhibit all the symptoms, which many never do.

There is usually very little treatment for mononucleosis except bed rest, watchful intake of fluids, and antibiotics when strep throat in present. Anti-viral medications have shown little benefit in patients with mononucleosis. Severe swelling of the spleen or liver may require the use of oral steroids like prednisone, and those with swelling of the organs may need to be more closely monitored so that permanent damage to the spleen or liver does not occur.

After the initial three to four weeks of illness, most notice immense improvement. However, fatigue and occasional relapses may occur. If recurrences are noticed more than six months after diagnosis, and particularly when exhaustion prevails, the diagnosis may include Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), which can last for years. CFS is relatively rare and also difficult to diagnose, since all with mononucleosis will still exhibit the Epstein Barr virus in their blood.