How it Spreads
- From person-to-person contact through kissing on the mouth or sharing objects contaminated with saliva (e.g., toys, toothbrushes, cups, or bottles).
- Possibly by blood transfusion or organ transplantation.
Signs and Symptoms
- Usually mild or no signs or symptoms, especially in young children
- Fever, sore throat, or fatigue
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Enlarged liver and spleen
- Rash may occur with those treated with amoxicillin or other penicillin
Prevention
- Wash hands often for at least 15 to 20 seconds
- Avoid transfer or contact with saliva through kissing or sharing respiratory secretions (coughs or sneezes) directly or through contact with objects like food utensils, cups, bottles, or drink cans).
- People with signs and symptoms of mononucleosis should not donate blood
- Clean and sanitize toys and utensils before they are shared (i.e., after each child has used them)
- Ensure all children have their own toothbrushes, cups, and eating utensils
- Prevent children form sharing food
- Avoid kissing children on the mouth
Treatment
- Most people get better in 2 to 4 weeks. You can help relieve symptoms by drinking fluids to stay hydrated, getting plenty of rest, taking over-the-counter medications for pain and fever
- See your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about treatment options.