Mononucleosis, commonly known as “mono,” is often called the “kissing disease” because it spreads through saliva. It is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which is part of the herpes virus family. Many people wonder if mono can be passed from one person to another simply by breathing the same air. Understanding how mono spreads, symptoms, and treatments are essential for protecting your health and preventing infection.
For same-day mono testing and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Cedar Grove. Our urgent care center is open seven days a week and never requires appointments. Just walk-in today!
Is Mono Airborne?
The simple answer is no. Mono is not considered an airborne illness. Unlike the flu or COVID-19, which spread through tiny airborne particles, mono spreads mainly through direct contact with infected saliva. Kissing, sharing drinks, utensils, toothbrushes, or even lip balm with someone who has the virus are common ways it can spread.
However, coughing or sneezing may play a small role in transmission. Droplets from an infected person could carry the virus if they come into direct contact with your mouth. Still, this form of spread is much less common. Most mono cases come from close, intimate contact rather than casual breathing in shared spaces.
Symptoms of Mono
Mono can take four to six weeks after exposure for symptoms to appear. When they do, they often include:
- Extreme fatigue
- Fever and chills
- Sore throat that doesn’t improve with typical treatments
- Swollen lymph nodes, especially in the neck and armpits
- Enlarged tonsils with a whitish coating
- Headaches and body aches
- Enlarged spleen or, in rare cases, liver swelling
Treating Mono
There is no specific medication to cure mono since it is caused by a virus. Treatment mainly focuses on managing symptoms and giving the body time to recover. Common recommendations include:
- Rest: Fatigue can last for weeks, so plenty of rest is essential.
- Hydration: Drinking fluids helps the body fight infection and prevents dehydration.
- Over-the-counter medication: Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and discomfort.
- Avoid strenuous activities: Since the spleen can enlarge, physical exertion or contact sports should be avoided until cleared by a healthcare provider.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Cedar Grove For Walk-In Mono Testing & Symptom Relief
If you experience severe sore throat, trouble swallowing, intense abdominal pain, or unusual fatigue that doesn’t improve, visiting an urgent care clinic is a smart choice. A healthcare provider can evaluate your symptoms, rule out other conditions, and guide you to a safe recovery. Getting medical attention quickly can prevent complications and help you feel better faster. Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Cedar Grove for a professional evaluation and treatment plan. Appointments are not required to be seen by a board-certified medical provider. Just stop by when it’s convenient for you. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, please contact our office directly at (973) 239-2300.
