Mono is an infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus and transferred through the saliva of an infected person to another; hence, named the kissing disease. Its early-stage symptoms are the exact symptoms of flu. This similarity makes it difficult for infected persons to discern between Mono and Flu.
The Epstein-Barr Virus resides in the throat and is mixed with the saliva. Once the saliva gets into the system of another, it has a new host and continues reproducing. Unlike other infections with a specific drug designed to get rid of them, Mono is different and can only be treated and not eradicated. This is why people who once had Mono are still present hosts for the Epstein-Barr Virus.
AFC Urgent Care Burlington can test for and help treat Mono. If you find yourself sick with any of the following symptoms, visit us today for a diagnosis.
How Mono spreads
The Epstein-Barr Virus lives in the throat and readily integrates with saliva. Individuals that once had Mono are not free from the Epstein-Barr Virus and can still spread them even if they are healthy. This is because the Epstein-Barr virus remains dormant rather than eradicated despite treatments. Once the infected saliva gets into another individual, they are most likely to get Mono. Common ways Mono is spread include:
Kissing:
The common way Mono spreads is through kissing or smooching. Here, the virus is transferred between the two individuals.
Infected utensils: Using utensils with an EBV carrier. Direct use of unwashed utensils with an infected person promotes the spread of the Epstein-Barr Virus.
Infected blood transfusion and organ transplantation: Infected blood transfusion or organs from an EBV carrier to a non-infected person is one of the uncommon ways Mono spreads.
Oral sex:
Oral sex between two or more individuals can also promote the spread of Mono.
Reducing transmission
Avoid intimate kisses with strangers
Since Mono is spread majorly through kissing, avoid intimate kisses with strangers. Ensure your partner gets checked for more STDs and the presence of the Epstein-Barr Virus before intimacy begins.
Avoid sharing utensils
Another common way of getting Mono is using unwashed utensils that may have the Epstein-Barr Virus. Ensure all utensils are properly washed and cleaned before use.
Screen every blood donor
Although transmission through blood transfusion is uncommon, ensure every prospective blood donor is screened and rested properly before their blood is accepted for use. This will curb the massive transfer of Epstein-Barr Virus and other infections.
Symptoms of Mono
The early symptoms of Mono are similar to having the flu or a cold. However, as the infection progresses, distinct symptoms start to show to differentiate a Mono infection from the flu. Common Mono symptoms include:
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Muscle ache
- Swollen abdomen (especially the region of the spleen and liver)
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck and armpit
- Swollen groins
- Rash
- Extreme tiredness
- Loss of appetite
