Types of mono

What is the difference between mono and infectious mono?

Infectious mononucleosis, also called “mono,” is a contagious disease. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is the most common cause of infectious mononucleosis, but other viruses can also cause this disease. It is common among teenagers and young adults, especially college students.

What are the four stages of mono?

Yes, there are three main stages for mono. The first one is the prodrome stage, followed by the acute stage, and the convalescent or recovery stage is the third and last stage of mono.

What’s the difference between Epstein-Barr and mono?

Epstein-Barr is the virus that causes mononucleosis. You might know this disease better by its nickname, “mono.” It’s also called the “kissing disease” because of one way you can spread it to someone else. Even though Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) isn’t a household name, you’ve probably been infected without knowing it.

Can you get both types of mono?

It’s also possible to catch a form of mono that’s caused by a different virus, such as cytomegalovirus (CMV). If you have EBV, you can still develop mono caused by another virus.

Is mono an STD?

Is Mono Considered an STD? In cases where it is passed through sexual contact, mono can be considered a sexually transmitted disease (STD), although mono is more often spread through contact with saliva. EBV is a member of the herpes virus family, along with the viruses that cause herpes and chickenpox.

How did I get mono without kissing?

The virus that causes mono (Epstein-Barr virus) is spread through saliva. You can get it through kissing, but you can also be exposed by sharing a glass or food utensils with someone who has mono. However, mononucleosis isn’t as contagious as some infections, such as the common cold.

Will you always test positive for mono?

A small number of people with mononucleosis may never have a positive test. The highest number of antibodies occurs 2 to 5 weeks after mono begins. They may be present for up to 1 year. In rare cases, the test is positive even though you do not have mono.

Does mono ever go away?

Most cases of mononucleosis are caused by infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Once you’re infected with EBV, you carry the virus — usually in a dormant state — for the rest of your life. Sometimes, however, the virus may reactivate. When this happens, you’re not likely to become ill.

How long do mono flare ups last?

The signs and symptoms of mono typically last for 1 to 2 months. The incubation period may be shorter in young children. Some symptoms, like sore throat and fever, typically lessen after 1 or 2 weeks. Other symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and an enlarged spleen may last a few weeks longer.

How long does it take for mono to pass?

The illness may last seven to ten days, but varies widely from person to person. It may take several weeks to fully recover normal stamina. It is believed that on rare occasions people may develop “chronic” or “recurrent” mono. The vast majority of people recover completely.

When is mono not contagious?

People are definitely contagious while they have symptoms, which can last 2–4 weeks or even longer. Health experts aren’t sure how long people with mono stay contagious after symptoms are gone, but it seems they can spread the infection for months after that.

How do you get over mono fast?

There’s no specific therapy available to treat infectious mononucleosis. Antibiotics don’t work against viral infections such as mono. Treatment mainly involves taking care of yourself, such as getting enough rest, eating a healthy diet and drinking plenty of fluids.

What happens if mono goes untreated?

Meningitis Symptoms and Complications

Myocarditis This is an inflammation of the heart muscle. Nervous System Problems These include meningitis, encephalitis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, Bell’s palsy, and seizures. Certain Cancers These include Burkitt lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

Should I wear a mask if I have mono?

If you have mono, you may want to wear a protective face mask to help prevent spreading the disease to others.

Do you need to isolate with mono?

Mono does not require isolation from others. Most individuals have been exposed to mono, and are not at risk of contacting it. Roommates rarely contract mono from one another, unless through direct contact with saliva or other bodily fluids. The virus is less contagious than the common cold.

Can I go to work with mono?

Many people with mono develop an enlarged spleen, which can last for a few weeks or longer. Although you can return to school or work when you are feeling better, it’s important to avoid activities that can cause injury to the spleen.

What test is done for mono?

Monospot test.

This test looks for specific antibodies in the blood. These antibodies show up during or after during certain infections, including mono.