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Mononucleosis and Your Child
What is Mononucleosis?
Mononucleosis or mono, as it is commonly referred to, is usually caused by what is known as the Epstein-Barr virus. Usually found in young adults, it is sometimes found in younger children, but is usually mistaken for something else, due to milder symptoms being present. More below:
What are the Symptoms of Mono?
Mono is commonly mistaken with step throat, since it shares many of the same characteristics as step throat. Symptoms include: fever, inflamed and tender throat and tonsils (occasionally pus will be present on both as well), and intense fatigue. The majority of the symptoms will only last up to two - four weeks, but the fatigue can last for a long time. If left unchecked, this illness can intensify and sometimes complications may arise such as an enlarged spleen (that can rupture if not careful) or a inflamed liver. This complication is very rare. It is advised to make sure a ruptured spleen is not a risk, children with an enlarged spleen should avoid all sports until at least 2 mos. after symptoms disappear completely.
How is Mono Diagnosed and Treated?
A blood test is primarily how your child's physician will discover mono, to inspect your child's blood count and test for the presence of the virus. There really is no medical treatment for mono at this point in time. Usually it is advised for patients to cease all activities and focus on rest and recovery. The virus usually stays in your system for life, and can crop up at any time, although usually reoccurences only happen at points when the patient's body's immune system is low.
Is Mono Contagious?
Mon is passed through saliva, so the only way to pass it on is thru kissing, or inhalation of particles in the air, such as through coughing or sneezing.
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