Mononucleosis, commonly known as mono, is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus which is usually spread through saliva. Common symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, fever and fatigue. While antibiotics are ineffective as it is a viral infection, rest, fluids and acetaminophen can help relieve symptoms. There is no vaccine and prevention involves avoiding sharing drinks and intimate contact to prevent transmission.

1. MONO
Created by VSU Student Health Center

2. MONO
 THE KISSING DISEASE Mononucleosis is an
illness caused by a virus, usually the Epstein-
Barr virus.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. Source
 Cooley, B., Mueller, M., McNeely, M.
(1998). ETR Associates. Santa Cruz, CA.
www.etr.org.