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Mononucleosis
Moderate
Infectious mononucleosis, often called mono, is a contagious viral infection. It commonly causes extreme tiredness, fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and sometimes an enlarged spleen or liver. Most cases are caused by Epstein-Barr virus. Symptoms often develop gradually and most people recover, although fatigue can continue for several weeks or occasionally longer.
Body System
Blood & Immune System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Mononucleosis is usually managed with supportive care, but medical assessment is appropriate when symptoms are severe or persistent. Seek prompt care for significant dehydration, worsening weakness, severe abdominal pain, or difficulty swallowing. Emergency assessment is needed for severe breathing difficulty, inability to swallow fluids, fainting, severe abdominal pain, or other signs of a serious complication.
Symptoms
4
Causes
2
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Infectious mononucleosis, often called mono, is a contagious viral infection. It commonly causes extreme tiredness, fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and sometimes an enlarged spleen or liver. Most cases are caused by Epstein-Barr virus. Symptoms often develop gradually and most people recover, although fatigue can continue for several weeks or occasionally longer.
Symptoms 4
Difficulty Swallowing
Fatigue
Fever
Swollen Lymph Nodes
Causes 2
Mononucleosis is most commonly caused by Epstein-Barr virus, which spreads through contact with infected saliva. Less commonly, similar symptoms can be caused by other infections. The virus may spread through activities involving saliva, including kissing or sharing drinks or eating utensils.
Infection
Stress
Risk Factors
Mononucleosis is particularly common among teenagers and young adults, although infection can occur at any age. Risk increases with close contact with an infected person because the virus is commonly spread through saliva. Sharing drinks, food, utensils, or personal items that contact saliva can also transmit the infection. Previous lack of exposure to Epstein-Barr virus may make a person susceptible to symptomatic infection.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis is based on the symptoms and physical examination, including examination of the throat and lymph nodes and checking for enlargement of the liver or spleen. A healthcare provider may order blood tests to look for changes associated with mononucleosis or antibodies to Epstein-Barr virus. A rapid mono test may be used in appropriate circumstances, although additional testing may be needed when the result is unclear.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
There is no vaccine that prevents infectious mononucleosis
The risk of spreading the infection can be reduced by avoiding kissing and by not sharing food, drinks, utensils, or lip balm with someone who has mono
Good hand hygiene is also useful
Because the virus may remain in saliva after symptoms improve, people should follow appropriate precautions during recovery and according to medical advice
Prevention Guidance
There is no vaccine that prevents infectious mononucleosis. The risk of spreading the infection can be reduced by avoiding kissing and by not sharing food, drinks, utensils, or lip balm with someone who has mono. Good hand hygiene is also useful. Because the virus may remain in saliva after symptoms improve, people should follow appropriate precautions during recovery and according to medical advice.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Soups
Easy to consume during illness.
Fresh Fruits
Provide vitamins and hydration.
Protein Rich Foods
Support recovery.
Foods to Avoid
Alcohol
May delay recovery.
Junk Food
Provides poor nutrition.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
It is a viral infection commonly caused by Epstein-Barr virus.
It spreads mainly through saliva.
Fever, sore throat and fatigue are common.
Blood tests and clinical evaluation are used.
Many cases improve with rest and supportive care.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.