How long is mono contagious

Most people refer to it as the kissing disease. It also called mononucleosis, mono and glandular fever. This medical condition is commonly triggered by a certain type of virus called the Epstein-Barr virus. This virus comes from the family of viruses called herpes. Most different types of viruses from this type of family remain in the body of a person for the remaining of his or her life, once they get contracted. The same can be said for the Epstein-Barr virus which is responsible for the occurrence of mononucleosis.

Incubation Period Duration

The period between the infection and the appearance of the symptoms of the actual disease is commonly referred to as the incubation period. In case of mononucleosis, the incubation period can last anywhere between 4 and 8 weeks. Due to this fact, people are usually unaware of the fact that they suffer from mononucleosis until the first symptoms start kicking in.

Mononucleosis Symptoms

Asymptomatic cases of mononucleosis may not involve any symptoms at all. This is why sometimes it may be very difficult to determine if a person suffers from mononucleosis. The initial symptoms of mononucleosis usually include chills, loss of appetite, poor appetite, headaches and a general lack of energy. As the viral infection gradually progresses, the patient usually starts experiencing several other types of symptoms such as night sweats, swollen spleen, soft spleen, skin rash, swollen tonsils, swollen lymph glands in the neck area, high fever and severe sore throat.

Mono Contagious - For How Long?

Mononucleosis is definitely contagious, but it is impossible to determine the exact period of time. Some people who suffer from mononucleosis are not contagious at all. As the viral infections progresses, it gradually becomes less contagious. Some people tend to be contagious as soon as the infection kicks in while some others may still be contagious long after all the symptoms of the medical condition are gone. Some rare cases of mononucleosis have involved people who were contagious years after the symptoms of the infection have gone. The bottom line is that the exact period of time cannot be determined.

Prevention of Mononucleosis Spreading

In order to prevent mononucleosis from spreading to other people one must avoid sharing glasses, food utensils, drinking straws and similar. Kissing should be avoided, no matter what! This is why mononucleosis is often referred to as the kissing disease. The virus can be spread rather easily through the saliva. The treatment plan involves plenty of resting, an increased intake of fluids and a well balanced diet.