Mono (Infectious Mononucleosis): Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Mono (*short for mononucleosis*), also known as infectious mononucleosis, is an infectious disease caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a member of the herpesvirus family.

- It's typically spread through contact with saliva, such as coughing, kissing, or sharing drinks, but it can also be spread through blood transfusions.

- Mono is most common in teenagers and young adults, but it can affect people of any age.

Symptoms can vary, but the most common include:

- Fatigue

- Sore throat

- Fever

- Swollen lymph nodes

- Body aches

- Headache

- Rash

- Loss of appetite

Most people recover from mono within a few weeks, but some may experience fatigue and other symptoms for months. In rare cases, mono can lead to complications such as liver damage, spleen rupture, or encephalitis.