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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffInfectious mononucleosis (mono) is often called the kissing disease. The virus that causes mono is transmitted through saliva, so you can get it through kissing, but you can also be exposed through a cough or sneeze, or by sharing a glass or food utensil with someone who has mono. However, mononucleosis isn't as contagious as some infections, such as the common cold.
You're most likely to get mononucleosis with all the signs and symptoms if you're an adolescent or young adult. Young children usually have few symptoms, and the infection often goes unrecognized.
If you have mononucleosis, it's important to be careful of certain complications such as an enlarged spleen. Rest and adequate fluids are key to recovery.
- Epstein-Barr virus and infectious mononucleosis. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/diseases/ebv.htm. Accessed April 27, 2010.
- Infectious mononucleosis. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merck.com/mmpe/sec14/ch189/ch189f.html. Accessed April 27, 2010.
- Fort GG, et al. Mononucleosis. In: Ferri FF. Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2010. St. Louis, Mo.: Mosby; 2009. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/198193047-5/0/2088/420.html#4-u1.0-B978-0-323-05609-0..00022-8--sc0150_8624. Accessed April 27, 2010.
- Katz BZ. Epstein-Barr virus infections (mononucleosis and lymphoproliferative disorders). In: Long SS, et al., eds. Long: Principles and Practice of Pediatric Infectious Diseases. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Churchill Livingstone Elsevier; 2008. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/198193047-5/0/1679/211.html?tocnode=55243816&fromURL=211.html#4-u1.0-B978-0-443-06687-0..50210-1_3825. Accessed April 27, 2010.
- Ross SM. An integrative approach to rhinosinusitis in children. Holistic Nursing Practice. 2009;23:302.
- Hoecker JL (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. April 29, 2010.
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