Mono, or infectious mononucleosis, is sometimes called the “kissing disease” for good reason. This illness, which is most often caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, is often transmitted through saliva.
Young adults and teens are most susceptible to getting it, and it usually isn’t a cause or serious concern. Learn more about this common illness from our AFC Urgent Care Knoxville team below!
Is Mono Contagious?
Yes, mono is a very contagious illness. Although experts aren’t totally sure about how long the infectious period lasts, the most common way to infect someone is if they come in contact with your saliva, such as by kissing or sharing eating utensils.
In fact, due to mono’s long incubation period, you may not even know if you have mono once you’ve been infected with the virus. Mono can continue to be contagious for three months or more after you experience the symptoms that we’ve listed below.
Common Mono Symptoms
- Extreme fatigue
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Head and body aches
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck and armpits
- Swollen liver or spleen or both
- Rash
Is Mono a Serious Health Concern?
Normally, no. The majority of mono symptoms go away on their own in two to four weeks, but some symptoms, such as acute fatigue, can linger for up to six months in some circumstances.
A ruptured spleen is the most serious complication of mono, but the chances of this happening are very slim. If you or your loved one experiences any of the below-mentioned symptoms, seek additional medical care quickly.
When to Seek Additional Medical Care
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Dizziness or fainting
- Extreme muscle weakness in arms or legs
- Intense body aches
- High fever that won’t go away
- Severe headaches
- Sharp pain in the upper left abdomen
Want to learn more about infectious mononucleosis? Our AFC Urgent Care Knoxville team can tell you what you need to know! Call or visit us today.
