Most people think of mononucleosis as the kissing disease. While it’s true that the virus that causes the infection is spread through saliva, it can be passed along through coughing, sneezing, or sharing a drink or a food utensil as well. Because symptoms usually don’t appear until 6 months after infection, determining the exact culprit may be tricky.

The virus that causes mononucleosis is called Epstein-Barr, named for the two British scientists, Anthony Epstein (1921–) and Yvonne Barr (1932–), who discovered it in 1964. The strain is one of the most common human viruses; by age 35 or 40, it’s estimated that up to 95 percent of people have been infected with it. However, only about one in three of those who are exposed during adolescence or young adulthood actually contracts mononucleosis.

Symptoms of the illness include fever; weakness; headache; skin rash; and swollen throat, tonsils, and lymph nodes. A physician can diagnose mononucleosis by performing a test that screens for antibodies for the Epstein-Barr virus. As with the majority of other viruses, there isn’t a cure or medication to treat it; the virus will leave the body on its own in about 4 to 8 weeks. Some medications, including antibiotics for an accompanying case of strep throat, may help treat symptoms and secondary infections. In rare cases, mononucleosis can cause the spleen to enlarge and even rupture, which is a medical emergency. Other complications include mild liver inflammation (hepatitis), which may cause jaundice, a yellowing of the skin.

ADDITIONAL FACTS

  1. As with chicken pox, once people are exposed to the Epstein-Barr virus, they build up antibodies to it but are not protected from a later recurrence.
  2. The Epstein-Barr virus is a type of herpes virus.
  3. People with mononucleosis are told to avoid exercise and other strenuous activities, because too much physical effort may delay recovery.