“MONONUCLEOSIS” is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, which is believed to be present in saliva. Most infections occur in young children and many adults are immune. It is spread by contact with saliva of an infected person. It spreads more readily in closed or over-crowded conditions. Transmission usually requires close, personal contact.
SYMPTOMS: Symptoms are fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, headache and fatigue. Many infections produce no symptoms. Adults tend to become more ill than children.
CONTAGIOUS PERIOD:Contagious period is unknown - probably for months.
TREATMENT:Simple measures to reduce symptoms: i.e., Tylenol for fever, bed rest for fatigue. See a physician for severe illness.PREVENTION: