Mono (Infectious Mononucleosis): Symptoms, Causes & Transmission

Mononucleosis, also referred to the "kissing disease," is a common viral infection that affects many young people in the United States. It was given its nickname because teenagers often pass the virus by kissing.

Identification

• Mononucleosis is caused by a virus known as the Epstein-Barr virus. According to the Mayo Clinic, it can be transmitted between people in saliva from coughing, sharing of eating utensils and drinking glasses, sneezing or kissing.

Time Frame

• People most frequently contract mononucleosis in the United States between the ages of 10 and 35, but most people catch it when they're teenagers.

Features

• The Mayo Clinic lists some of the more common symptoms as sore throat, fever, headache, skin rash, swollen tonsils and fatigue.

Significance

• The condition can last anywhere from four to eight weeks in older children and two to four weeks in younger children. It is possible for a child to have the Epstein-Barr virus and show no symptoms at all.

Warning

• Liver problems such as hepatitis and jaundice are possible complications from mononucleosis if it goes untreated.