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MONO. Created by VSU Student Health Center. MONO. THE KISSING DISEASE Mononucleosis is an illness caused by a virus, usually the Epstein-Barr virus. MONO FACTS. 80-95% of adults in the U.S. have had mono by the time they are 40; only about 20% know they’ve had it.
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MONO Created by VSU Student Health Center
MONO • THE KISSING DISEASE Mononucleosis is an illness caused by a virus, usually the Epstein-Barr virus.
MONO FACTS • 80-95% of adults in the U.S. have had mono by the time they are 40; only about 20% know they’ve had it. • Mono is transmitted usually by saliva. Kissing, drinking after someone and intimate contact are typical sources of exposure. • Mono has a long incubation period. It can take 1-2 months for symptoms to appear. • Many people are infectious without symptoms.
MONO SYMPTOMS • Swollen lymph glands • Sore throat • Fever • Fatigue • Additional symptoms may include headache, poor appetite, muscle aches, nausea and a skin rash. • Jaundice (yellow color in eyes or skin) or dark urine, usually only seen in more severe cases.
TREATMENT AND PREVENTION • Antibiotics will not help as it is caused by a virus. • Get plenty of rest. Some cases need 1-2 weeks away from work or school. • Eat healthy, drink lots of fluids but no alcohol. • Acetaminophen (Tylenol) will help pain and fever. • Salt water gargles, sucking on ice cubes, or lozenges may relieve soreness in throat. • Avoid contact sports and strenuous activities as the spleen may be enlarged and could rupture if hit. • Don’t share drinks, avoid intimate contact if you don’t have time to be sick.
Source • Cooley, B., Mueller, M., McNeely, M. (1998). ETR Associates. Santa Cruz, CA. www.etr.org.