Infectious Mononucleosis Learning Center

If you or your child or loved one are feeling extremely tired, listless and sleeping 12 to 16 hours a day you might just have mono. The Infectious Mononucleosis Learning Center's Symptoms section provides a list of other symptoms of this viral illness, but fatigue is usually the first sign. Mono is caused by viruses that have subtle effects - making you feel run down. Most people with mono do not need to see a specialist - your health care provider will do the tests to determine the diagnosis.

There is no specific drug therapy for infectious mononucleosis. Because it is a viral illness, antibiotics are not recommended. The primary treatment is rest. For school aged children, this means as much as four weeks of missed time from school. Arrangements will need to be made with school officials for the child to continue studies at home. Parents will need to work with Family Leave benefits you may be eligible for. You will need documentation from your health care provider to confirm the treatment plan (rest at home) for both the school and your employer...however you are not required to disclose your child's diagnosis.

College students and military populations have the greatest risk of contracting mono, but people who have a history of blood transfusions or open heart surgery are also at risk. Families who have a member diagnosed with mono must take precautions to prevent spread to other family members through contact with saliva. Provide separate dishware for the infected person and wash dishes in very hot water. Use diluted bleach (10% solution) to clean contaminated surfaces.

Infectious Mononucleosis challenges the immune system and there may be complications.

While recovery may be slow and relapses may plague the patient with periodic episodes of fatigue, most people recover uneventfully.