Mononucleosis also known as Mono or “Kissing disease” is a viral infection causing fevers, sore throat, and swollen lymph glands. It is typically caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), but can also be caused by other organisms. Mononucleosis is often transmitted by saliva. While it is known as "the kissing disease," occurring often in 15- to 17-year-olds, the infection may occur at any age. We have seen many children get exposed to and contract Mono by the fourth year of life.
Mono may begin slowly with fatigue, malaise, headache, and sore throat. The sore throat becomes progressively worse, often with enlarged tonsils covered with a whitish-yellow covering. The lymph nodes in the neck are frequently enlarged and painful. A pink, measles-like rash can occur and is more likely if the patient is given an antibiotic for a throat infection (Antibiotics will NOT be given without a positive Strep test). The symptoms of Mono gradually subside on their own over a period of weeks to months.