Mononucleosis
Mononucleosis is a viral illness caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Epstein-Barr virus is a member of the herpes virus family. Mononucleosis occurs worldwide, and most people become infected with EBV sometime during their lives. In the United States, approximately 95% of adults at least 40 years of age have been infected. Anyone can be infected with the EBV, but very few develop illness.
Symptoms of illness include fever, sore throat, swollen glands, and a feeling of tiredness. Mononucleosis usually last for several weeks, but can persist for several months. Very young children may not develop any symptoms after being infected or may experience symptoms indistinguishable from other mild viral diseases. If a person develops symptoms, they usually appear four to six weeks after infection with the virus.
The virus is spread from person to person by saliva (on hands, toys, or by kissing). Both ill and non-ill persons can spread the virus. The virus is carried in the throat and can be spread during the illness and for as long as a year after infection. Some people can carry and spread the virus off and on throughout their lifetime. For this reason, transmission of the virus is almost impossible to prevent.
