Mononucleosis, commonly known as mono, is a viral infection that frequently impacts teenagers and young adults. While it is a common illness, there is often confusion regarding its transmission, particularly whether it can be spread through sexual contact. Understanding the nature of mono and its primary modes of transmission helps clarify these misunderstandings.
What is Mononucleosis?
Infectious mononucleosis is primarily caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a member of the herpesvirus family. Most people are exposed to EBV in childhood with few symptoms. However, infection in adolescents or young adults can lead to more pronounced symptoms.
Common symptoms of mono include extreme fatigue, fever, a sore throat that might not improve with antibiotics, and swollen lymph nodes. Some individuals may also experience headaches, swollen tonsils, or a swollen spleen. The incubation period typically ranges from four to six weeks.
How Mono Spreads
Mono is predominantly transmitted through infected saliva, earning it the nickname “the kissing disease.” This occurs through kissing, sharing drinking glasses, eating utensils, or toothbrushes. The virus can remain in saliva for several months, even when an infected person shows no symptoms.
While saliva is the most common route, the Epstein-Barr virus is also found in other bodily fluids, including blood and semen. Transmission can occur through sexual contact, blood transfusions, or organ transplants, though these routes are less common than salivary transmission. Mono can be transmitted sexually due to fluid exchange, but it is not primarily classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI) like chlamydia or gonorrhea. The confusion often arises because close physical contact during sexual activity can facilitate the primary salivary transmission route.
Preventing Mono and Seeking Care
Preventing mono involves avoiding saliva exchange. Refrain from kissing and sharing personal items like cups, utensils, and toothbrushes, especially if symptomatic. Regular handwashing also reduces transmission risk. No vaccine is currently available.
Seek medical attention for persistent symptoms like high fever, severe sore throat, difficulty swallowing, or sharp, sudden pain in the upper left abdomen. This pain could indicate an enlarged spleen, a potential complication that, in rare instances, can lead to splenic rupture. Treatment for mono is primarily supportive, focusing on rest, adequate fluid intake, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Avoiding strenuous activities and contact sports is recommended for several weeks to minimize the risk of splenic injury.