Mononucleosis is a viral infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It is transferred through the bodily fluids of an infected to another. Although kissing is the major cause of viral transfer, sharing utensils or drinks can contribute to the spread.
Although mononucleosis is not as contagious as the flu, one person with EBV can transfer to tens of people in a short span. If you find yourself feeling under the weather, visit AFC Urgent Care Stoneham for treatment. Our providers will look at your symptoms & treat you right away to help you recover quickly.
Symptoms of Mono
Like easily contagious diseases, symptoms are barely noticeable in the incubation and prodrome stage. Here are common symptoms of mono:
- Fever
- Headaches
- Sore throat
- Swollen spleen and/or liver
- Muscle ache
- Tiredness
- Nauseous
- Loss of appetite
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Rash
- Jaundice
Transmission
Mono is easily contagious and can spread from person to person in days. The major form of mono is the transmission is through kisses or smooches, where an exchange of fluid occurs. Here, an infected person spreads part of the EBV virus to another, multiplying as the day passes.
However, there are other ways mono can be transmitted, and one is the use of utensils of an infected person. For instance, a person with mono uses a utensil or uses a straw to drink, and another infected person uses the same utensils and straw with washing it disinfecting. There is a high chance of infection occurring.
Mono can also be passed through blood transmission when an infected person transfers or donate blood. Hence, blood donors should be checked and screened before they are accepted to donate blood.
Although it occurs rarely, mono can also be spread during sexual intercourse, particularly during oral sex. During intimacy, body fluids are more likely to get around, spreading the EBV simultaneously.
People who have been infected with mono carry the virus throughout their life. The EBV is not treated during the acute phase of infection, where several medications have been administered to treat the symptoms, the EBV is not treated. Rather the virus activities are limited, making them dormant. They appear again when the immune system is lower, allowing for a recurring infection.
Treating Mono
There is no designated medication for mono rather, treatment is aimed at reducing the symptoms. In persons above the age of 50 or in certain persons with a pre-existing weak immune, a mono-infection can be deadly and will require extra measures. However, teenagers and young adults heal faster. Common treatments for mono include:
NSAID to relieve pain and feverish condition: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications like aspirin, Advil, Acetaminophen ( commonly used NSAIDs for mono), or Ibuprofen are used to relieve pain and feverish conditions.
Rest: By resting, the body can heal and defend itself properly. It also saves the swollen spleen from bursting.
Fluid: Water and fluids from fruits help relieve sore throat feverish conditions and also prevent dehydration.
