Mononucleosis facts for kids

This picture shows what infected cells look like under a microscope.

Mononucleosis (say: mah-no-noo-klee-OH-sis), often called mono or "the kissing disease," is a common illness. It's caused by a virus and can make you feel very tired and unwell. When someone has mono, they have a lot of special cells called Lymphocytes in their blood.

There are a few types of mononucleosis, but the most common one is caused by the Epstein–Barr virus (EBV). Another type can be caused by the Cytomegalovirus (CMV). When people talk about "mono," they usually mean the kind caused by EBV.

What Causes Mononucleosis?

Most cases of mono are caused by the Epstein–Barr virus (EBV). This virus is very common, and many people get infected with it at some point in their lives, often without even knowing it. Once you've had EBV, the virus stays in your body, but it usually doesn't cause problems again.

Another virus that can cause mono-like symptoms is the Cytomegalovirus (CMV). Like EBV, CMV is also very common.

How Does Mono Spread?

Mono spreads through saliva (spit). This is why it's sometimes called "the kissing disease." You can get it by:

• Kissing someone who has the virus.
• Sharing drinks or food.
• Sharing eating utensils, like forks or spoons.
• Sharing toothbrushes.

It's not as contagious as a common cold, but it can still spread easily among friends and family.

What Are the Symptoms of Mono?

The symptoms of mono can be different for everyone. Some people might feel only a little sick, while others feel very unwell. It can take about four to six weeks after getting the virus for symptoms to show up.

Common symptoms include:

• Extreme tiredness: This is often the most noticeable symptom. You might feel exhausted, even after resting.
• Fever: Your body temperature might go up.
• Sore throat: This can be very painful and might last for a long time.
• Swollen lymph nodes: These are small glands in your neck, armpits, and groin that can feel tender and swollen.
• Swollen tonsils: Your tonsils might get bigger and have white patches.
• Headache: You might have a dull or throbbing headache.
• Body aches: Your muscles might feel sore.
• Loss of appetite: You might not feel like eating.

Sometimes, mono can also cause your Spleen to swell. The spleen is an organ in your upper left belly that helps filter your blood. If your spleen is swollen, it's important to avoid contact sports or heavy lifting, as a swollen spleen can sometimes get injured.

How is Mono Diagnosed?

If you think you might have mono, it's a good idea to see a doctor. The doctor will:

• Ask about your symptoms.
• Do a physical exam, checking for swollen lymph nodes, tonsils, or spleen.
• Order a blood test. This test can show if you have the specific antibodies that fight the mono virus or if you have a lot of those special lymphocytes.

How is Mono Treated?

There's no specific medicine to cure mono because it's caused by a virus. Antibiotics don't work against viruses. The main treatment is to rest and let your body fight off the infection.

Here's what can help you feel better:

• Rest a lot: This is the most important thing. Your body needs energy to fight the virus.
• Drink plenty of fluids: Water, juice, and broth can help prevent dehydration.
• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter medicines like Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help with fever, sore throat, and body aches.
• Gargle with salt water: This can help soothe a sore throat.
• Avoid contact sports: If your spleen is swollen, it's very important to avoid activities that could cause a blow to your stomach, like sports, until your doctor says it's safe.

Most people recover from mono in two to four weeks, but some might feel tired for several weeks or even months.

How to Prevent Mono?

Since mono spreads through saliva, the best way to prevent it is to avoid sharing things that might have someone else's spit on them.

• Don't share drinks, food, or eating utensils.
• Don't share toothbrushes.
• Avoid kissing people who are sick or who you know have mono.

Washing your hands often can also help reduce the spread of germs in general.

Images for kids

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  Main symptoms of infectious mononucleosis

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  Splenomegaly due to mononucleosis resulting in a subcapsular hematoma

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  Splenomegaly due to mononucleosis resulting in a subcapsular hematoma

See also

In Spanish: Mononucleosis infecciosa para niños