Mononucleosis, also called "mono," is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. It is catching. Almost everyone has been infected with the mono virus by adulthood.
After someone catches the virus, it usually takes 4-6 weeks for the signs to appear. There is a blood test that helps the doctor tell if someone has mononucleosis.
Children with mononucleosis may have these symptoms:
It spreads from person to person through droplets or by contact. When someone with mononucleosis kisses, coughs, sneezes or spits, the virus can spread to other people. People with mononucleosis may have saliva on their hands. Then, if they touch someone or something the virus can spread.
Most people do not get sick after they come into contact with the virus, but they develop antibodies to the disease. 90% of people have antibodies to the mononucleosis virus by their late teen years. There is no need to keep healthy people away from someone with mononucleosis. Don’t touch the tissues, washcloths or towels that belong to someone with mononucleosis.
About Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen.
Print this page as featured in the guide book, Sneezes & Diseases: A Resource Book for Caregivers & Parents