Mono is an infectious disease that affects the glandular systems of the body, leading to a sore throat, fever, and a general worn down feeling. Mononucleosis is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, more commonly referred to as EBV. This virus is transmitted through saliva, which is why it is commonly referred to as the kissing disease. While this is a common form of transmission, mono can be spread by anything involving the exchange of saliva, including using the same utensils and droplets expelled when coughing.
This particular infection is very common during adolescence, and the majority of adults under the age of 40 show signs of the the antibodies produced from an infection. This means that most people, at some point in their life, has had mononucleosis to some degree. While some people's immune system is better at fighting the infection, others will develop symptoms. Due to the very common nature of the symptoms of mono, a minor or very mild infection could be attributed to another condition by medical professionals.
It is important that you are tested for mono should the symptoms arise. While it isn't as contagious as the common cold, it isn't too far off. Since even a small amount of contact with infected saliva can spread the disease, precautions should be taken around those who have it.
Mono is called the kissing disease due to its prevalence in high school, where teenage sexuality is at its peak. While kissing is a common and direct form of transmission, there are other factors that most people do not consider, including the sharing of drinks and utensils, the close quarters in many high school facilities, and the frequent contact from extracurricular activities such as football. Any number of these reason could be why mono is most prevalent in people ages 15-17.
Luckily, once the antibodies have been created in your system, you will no longer have to worry about the symptoms of mono. While a dormant form of the virus may remain in the body for years, you will only see one major infection in your lifetime. Studies have shown that inactive forms of the virus can be found in healthy people's saliva for years following the initial infection.
The virus can be transmitted during this period, but it is less likely since the majority of people who have already developed antibodies will increase as well. Mono tends to have an incubation period of several weeks, and can be transmitted during this period of time. The symptoms of mono tend to last anywhere from two weeks to over a month. On standard, most infections will become a-symptomatic in under 30 days, with cases lasting longer than this showing a tendency to develop more severe symptoms.
