There have been several players whose careers have been affected by Infectious Mononucleosis (aka: Mono or “the kissing disease”): Mario Ancic, Roger Federer, Christina McHale, Heather Watson and Robin Soderling immediately come to mind.

FACTS

• Mono is caused primarily by EBV (Epstein Barr Virus)
• 95% of the adult world has been exposed to EBV (a Herpes virus)
• EBV often causes no symptoms in the infected adult
• However, at least 25% of teenagers and young adults who get infected will develop Infectious Mono
• Other causes include: CMV (Cytomegalovirus); HIV; Hepatitis A, B and C; Rubella virus; Toxoplasma gondii (Toxoplasmosis); and Streptococcal Pyogenes (strep throat)
• It is contagious
• It is transmitted by bodily fluids: saliva, blood, semen, tears

SYMPTOMS may appear 4-6 weeks after exposure/infection with EBV

• Extreme fatigue
• Fever
• Rash
• Head and body aches
• Sore throat
• Swollen lymph nodes (axillary, cervical and inguinal)
• Enlargement of the liver or spleen (known as organomegaly) may also occur in some people

DIAGNOSIS

• Diagnosis is made primarily by your presenting symptoms
• Blood tests can be done to make the diagnosis if symptoms are atypical

PROGNOSIS and TREATMENT

• Symptoms are usually self-limiting and most people get better within 2-4 weeks; however, fatigue and organomegaly, if present, may persist for several more weeks.
• A small percentage of people remain symptomatic for 6 months or more (chronic active EBV infection).
• Consult your doctor to get correctly diagnosed
• No vaccine is currently available for Infectious Mononucleosis.
• Stay hydrated.
• Get as much rest as possible.
• OTC (over-the-counter) anti-inflammatory medications may help with the pain and fever.