what is the incubation period for mono

Full Answer

How long until Mono is not contagious?

Mono symptoms eventually go away, but in some cases it can be contagious for up to 6 months or more. The virus that commonly causes it — Epstein-Barr virus — remains in the body forever without causing symptoms. For most people, mono eventually resolves without any issues. But for some, it can cause serious complications.

How long should fever last in mono?

Symptoms of mono ( infectious mononucleosis) may come on slowly and usually develop four to eight weeks after infection and may include: Extreme fatigue, which may last for more than a month. Fever (temperature greater than 100.4°F or 38°C) Sore throat. Headache. Body aches.

What are the warning signs of Mono?

Some common symptoms of early mono that you need to watch out for include:

• Severe measles-like rashes on skin are the commonest symptom of early mono.
• Small red spots noted on the roof of the palate or in the mouth can be as sign of infectious mononucleosis.
• High grade fever, sometimes with chills are seen in infectious mononucleosis in adults and toddlers.
• Sore throats can be a common trouble too.

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What are the stages of Mono?

What are the four stages of mono?

• Get lots of rest.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Eat healthy foods.
• Gargle with salt water (but don't swallow), drink tea with honey, try throat lozenges, or suck on an ice pop if you have a sore throat.

How long after exposure do mono symptoms appear?

Typical symptoms of infectious mononucleosis usually appear four to six weeks after you get infected with EBV. Symptoms may develop slowly and may not all occur at the same time. Enlarged spleen and a swollen liver are less common symptoms.

When is mono most contagious?

Because it takes about 1–2 months for symptoms to start, people who are infected can spread the virus without knowing it. They're most contagious from right before symptoms start until they go away. But they can stay contagious for months after their symptoms have cleared up.

Can you be exposed to mono and not get it?

Over the course of a lifetime, almost everyone is exposed to Epstein-Barr virus, but many people never develop any of the typical symptoms of infectious mononucleosis. They do, nonetheless, acquire immunity and protection; and, in general, people get mononucleosis only once.

How long should you quarantine with mono?

Once your symptoms do appear, they may last for two to four weeks. You can pass the virus to other people through your saliva for up to three months after your symptoms subside.

What are the four stages of mono?

Mono has three stages: a prodrome, an acute stage, and a convalescent (recovery) stage. Mono has a long incubation period, so it can be difficult to pinpoint when the illness actually started.

Can I be around family if I have mono?

There is no vaccine to protect against the Epstein-Barr virus. But you can help protect yourself by avoiding close contact with anyone who has it. If you have mono, don't share the virus with your friends and family as you recover.

Do you have to isolate if you have mono?

Mono does not require isolation from others. Most individuals have been exposed to mono, and are not at risk of contacting it. Roommates rarely contract mono from one another, unless through direct contact with saliva or other bodily fluids. The virus is less contagious than the common cold.

What are the odds of contracting mono?

Called “the kissing disease,” mono causes extreme fatigue and can be almost impossible to avoid getting if you come into contact with someone carrying it. 95% of Americans will contract mono during their lifetime. By the age of five, half of children are already affected.

How is mononucleosis spread?

Mononucleosis is usually caused by EBV. The virus is spread through direct contact with saliva from the mouth of an infected person or other bodily fluids , such as blood. It’s also spread through sexual contact and organ transplantation.

What is mononucleosis?

Mono, or infectious mononucleosis, refers to a group of symptoms usually caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It typically occurs in teenagers, but you can get it at any age. The virus is spread through saliva, which is why some people refer to it as “the kissing disease.”. Many people develop EBV infections as children after age 1.

How long does mono last?

It lasts for 4 to 6 weeks. The signs and symptoms of mono typically last for 1 to 2 months. The incubation period may be shorter in young children.

What are the symptoms of mono?

Age is one of the main factors for diagnosing mono along with the most common symptoms: fever, sore throat, and swollen glands.

What is the most common virus in the world?

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a member of the herpes virus family. According to the CDC, it’s one of the most common viruses to infect humans around the world.

How long does it take for a swollen tonsil to go away?

The infection is typically not serious and usually goes away on its own in 1 to 2 months. Other symptoms may include: a headache. fatigue. muscle weakness. a rash consisting of flat pink or purple spots on your skin or in your mouth. swollen tonsils. night sweats.

What does a high lymphocyte count mean?

For example, a high lymphocyte count often indicates an infection .

How long does EBV last?

People are definitely contagious while they have symptoms, which can last 2–4 weeks or even longer .

Why do people get mono?

Here's how it works: Mono, or mononucleosis, usually is caused by an infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). People who have mono can be contagious from the time they first become infected. But they may not know that they have the virus.

Is mono contagious?

The way mono works in the body is tricky, so lots of people are confused about how long it is contagious. If you get mono, the virus stays in your body for life. That doesn't mean that you're always contagious . But the virus can surface from time to time and risk infecting someone else.

Can a virus stay in your body?

Then, the virus stays dormant (inactive) in the body for the rest of a person's life. Sometimes the dormant virus can "wake up" and find its way into a person's saliva (spit). That person might not feel ill or show any mono symptoms, but can spread the virus to other people.

How long does mono last?

1 According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), some people with mono may even deal with symptoms for up to six months after they first contracted the virus. 1.

How long does mono stay contagious?

Although medical professionals aren't exactly sure how long mono is contagious, some reports suggest that it can be spread to others for roughly three months after the initial transmission. 4.

How to test for mono?

To test for a mono infection, a doctor will likely use either a Monospot test or an EBV antibody test. They are designed to look for antibodies produced by the immune system in response to EBV. The EBV antibody test can determine if there is a recent infection or if one has occurred in the past. 9

How common is mono?

Mono is most common in young adults and teenagers: It is estimated that at least one out of four teenagers and young adults who get infected with EBV will develop mono. 1 Roughly 90% of Americans will have caught the virus by the time they turn 35 years old. 2. Oliver Rossi / Getty Images.

What are the symptoms of mono?

Mono may not present with any symptoms at all, especially in children. When symptoms do appear, they may include: 1 1 Fever 2 Headaches 3 Extreme fatigue 4 Rash 5 Sore throat 6 Body aches 7 Swollen liver or spleen 8 Swollen lymph nodes in the neck and armpits

What is the difference between active infection and incubation?

The incubation period is the time between the initial contraction of a virus and the onset of symptoms, while the active infection period is when a person is experiencing symptoms.

Can EBV be reactivated?

EBV can also remain in the body for life, so there is a small risk that it can reactivate. During reactivation, you can again have an increased viral load and spread the virus to others. 7

What does EBV show in blood work?

The blood work of patients who have infectious mononucleosis due to EBV infection may show—. more white blood cells (lymphocytes) than normal. unusual looking white blood cells (atypical lymphocytes) fewer than normal neutrophils or platelets. abnormal liver function.

How long does it take for a person to get better from mononucleosis?

For some people, their liver or spleen or both may remain enlarged even after their fatigue ends. Most people get better in two to four weeks; however, some people may feel fatigued for several more weeks. Occasionally, the symptoms of infectious mononucleosis can last for six months or longer.

How long does it take for mononucleosis to show?

Typical symptoms of infectious mononucleosis usually appear four to six weeks after you get infected with EBV. Symptoms may develop slowly and may not all occur at the same time.

How does EBV spread?

Typically, these viruses spread most commonly through bodily fluids, especially saliva . However, these viruses can also spread through blood and semen during sexual contact, blood transfusions, and organ transplantations.

What is the most common cause of mononucleosis?

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is the most common cause of infectious mononucleosis, but other viruses can also cause this disease. It is common among teenagers and young adults, especially college students. At least one out of four teenagers and young adults who get infected with EBV will develop infectious mononucleosis.

Can you test for mononucleosis?

Laboratory tests are not usually needed to diagnose infectious mononucleosis. However, specific laboratory tests may be needed to identify the cause of illness in people who do not have a typical case of infectious mononucleosis. The blood work of patients who have infectious mononucleosis due to EBV infection may show—.

Is Epstein-Barr a contagious disease?

About Infectious Mononucleosis. Infectious mononucleosis, also called “mono,” is a contagious disease. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is the most common cause of infectious mononucleosis, but other viruses can also cause this disease. It is common among teenagers and young adults, especially college students.

How does mononucleosis spread?

Mononucleosis is spread through saliva. If you're infected, you can help prevent spreading the virus to others by not kissing them and by not sharing food, dishes, glasses and utensils until several days after your fever has improved — and even longer, if possible.

What causes a spleen to enlarge?

A number of conditions, including liver disease and some cancers, can cause your spleen to become enlarged. Mononucleosis may cause enlargement of the spleen. In extreme cases, your spleen may rupture, causing sharp, sudden pain in the left side of your upper abdomen.

How long does Epstein-Barr stay in your saliva?

And remember to wash your hands regularly to prevent spread of the virus. The Epstein-Barr virus may persist in your saliva for months after the infection. No vaccine exists to prevent mononucleosis. By Mayo Clinic Staff.

How do you know if you have mononucleosis?

Signs and symptoms of mononucleosis may include: Fatigue. Sore throat, perhaps misdiagnosed as strep throat , that doesn't get better after treatment with antibiotics. Fever. Swollen lymph nodes in your neck and armpits. Swollen tonsils. Headache. Skin rash. Soft, swollen spleen.

What are the complications of mononucleosis?

Mononucleosis can also result in less common complications, including: Anemia — a decrease in red blood cells and in hemoglobin, an iron-rich protein in red blood cells. Thrombocytopenia — a low count of platelets, which are blood cells involved in clotting.

How long does it take for a rash to appear?

Skin rash. Soft, swollen spleen. The virus has an incubation period of about four to six weeks, although in young children this period may be shorter. The incubation period refers to how long before your symptoms appear after being exposed to the virus.

What is a low platelet count?

Thrombocytopenia — a low count of platelets, which are blood cells involved in clotting. Heart problems — an inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis) Complications involving the nervous system — meningitis, encephalitis and Guillain-Barre syndrome. Swollen tonsils — which can block breathing.

How to avoid spreading EBV?

Many people carry the virus without symptoms and pass it on to others. However, there are steps people can take to help prevent transmitting or contracting mono. People with mono should avoid kissing others while the virus is active.

How does mono spread?

cause of mono is an EBV infection. The virus typically spreads through bodily fluids. People can transmit EBV to others through saliva. This means that EBV can spread through kissing or sharing items such as cutlery and toothbrushes. The virus can spread through other bodily fluids.

How can mono prevent the spread of the virus?

People with mono can prevent the virus from spreading by avoiding kissing or the sharing objects that touch the mouth, such as a toothbrush. Most people only have mono once, but the virus will remain inactive in their bodies. Some people might have mono multiple times. Last medically reviewed on May 26, 2020.

How long is mono contagious?

On average, most people with mono are contagious for around 6 months. In some cases, it could be contagious for up to 18 months. During this time frame, anyone with mono can pass the infection on to others. in teenagers and young adults, particularly students in college.

What is the cause of mono?

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is the main cause of mono. Mono is short for mononucleosis. People sometimes refer to mono as glandular fever. Here we discuss how long mono is contagious, its symptoms, and how it usually spreads.

How long does it take for EBV to show symptoms?

People may notice symptoms 4–6 weeks after contracting EBV. Doctors refer to this as the incubation period. Symptoms typically appear gradually before increasing in intensity.

What are the symptoms of a swollen left abdomen?

They should seek immediate medical attention for any of the following symptoms: severe and persistent pain in the left abdomen or lower chest. feelings of weakness.

How Quickly Does Mono Progress?

The timeline from the initial onset of mono to a full recovery can differ from person to person. In the first four to six weeks after a person gets mono, they may not even know they have it. This is because mono has a long incubation period.

How many stages of mono?

Over the course of a mono infection, a person will experience three different stages of the disease. In each stage, the infection will present with different symptoms and health complications. chee gin tan / Getty Images.

How Is Mono Treated?

Currently, there is no medication or vaccine that can prevent or cure mono. This illness is fought off by the immune system. To help with recovery:

What Are the Long-Term Effects of Mono?

Mono has also been associated with an increased risk of developing autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis. 8

What is mono in 2021?

Anju Goel, MD, MPH. Published on May 19, 2021. Mononucleosis, or mono for short, is not simply a viral infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It means someone is infected with EBV or another virus and actually has symptoms.

What are the symptoms of stage 2 mono?

Symptoms become more pronounced. They consist of fever, inflammation or swelling in the lymph nodes, and sore throat. 2 Severe fatigue is also present at this phase. Other symptoms that could be present in those with a mono infection include: 4.

How long do symptoms of a prodrome last?

During the prodrome stage, symptoms begin to develop. They could include fatigue and malaise. These symptoms last three to five days on average. 2. In most cases, symptoms do not appear at all.

How long does mononucleosis last?

It has three stages. Prodrome stage, Acute stage, and Convalescent stage. Prodrome stage lasts for about 3 to 5 days. The symptoms seen during the prodrome stage are fatigue, malaise and mild headache. In this stage non-specific symptoms are present.

How long does it take for a sore throat to resolve?

This fatiguability might resolve in few weeks or take months to resolve completely.

How long does mono last?

Convalescent Stage. This is the last stage of mono; it usually lasts for about 2-6 months. It’s actually like a recovery stage most of the acute symptoms such as fever, sore throat, lymphadenopathy are resolved but fatiguability, lack of energy can be present along with less physical strength.

What are the symptoms of a prodrome?

The symptoms seen during the prodrome stage are fatigue, malaise and mild headache. In this stage non-specific symptoms are present, it’s hard to arrive at a diagnosis accurately with symptoms as these symptoms are present in most of the viral infections. Acute Stage.

How long does it take for fever to show up after prodrome?

Soon after the prodrome stage symptoms, fever occurs with a temperature of 39ºC and it might be present for the next 6 days.

How to treat mono?

Treatment Of Mono. Have plenty of rest, especially within the first two weeks after initiation of mono have bed rest. Rest is needed during mono in order to prevent the occurrence of some complications. Advertisement. Hydrate yourself.

How long after mono can you exercise?

Avoid doing exercises, contact sports, weight lifting at least 4-6 weeks after being diagnosed with mono. The spleen is enlarged and swollen and is at an increased risk of getting ruptured when you have mono. So, doing the above-mentioned activities increase the risk more, therefore, avoid these activities.

What is Epstein-Barr virus?

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a human herpesvirus that causes acute infectious mononucleosis and is associated with cancer and autoimmune disease. While many studies have been performed examining acute disease in adults following primary infection, little is known about the virological and immunological events during EBV's lengthy 6 week incubation period owing to the challenge of collecting samples from this stage of infection. We conducted a prospective study in college students with special emphasis on frequent screening to capture blood and oral wash samples during the incubation period. Here we describe the viral dissemination and immune response in the 6 weeks prior to onset of acute infectious mononucleosis symptoms. While virus is presumed to be present in the oral cavity from time of transmission, we did not detect viral genomes in the oral wash until one week before symptom onset, at which time viral genomes were present in high copy numbers, suggesting loss of initial viral replication control. In contrast, using a sensitive nested PCR method, we detected viral genomes at low levels in blood about 3 weeks before symptoms. However, high levels of EBV in the blood were only observed close to symptom onset-coincident with or just after increased viral detection in the oral cavity. These data imply that B cells are the major reservoir of virus in the oral cavity prior to infectious mononucleosis. The early presence of viral genomes in the blood, even at low levels, correlated with a striking decrease in the number of circulating plasmacytoid dendritic cells well before symptom onset, which remained depressed throughout convalescence. On the other hand, natural killer cells expanded only after symptom onset. Likewise, CD4+ Foxp3+ regulatory T cells decreased two fold, but only after symptom onset. We observed no substantial virus specific CD8 T cell expansion during the incubation period, although polyclonal CD8 activation was detected in concert with viral genomes increasing in the blood and oral cavity, possibly due to a systemic type I interferon response. This study provides the first description of events during the incubation period of natural EBV infection in humans and definitive data upon which to formulate theories of viral control and disease pathogenesis.

When do we detect viral genomes in the oral cavity?

While virus is presumed to be present in the oral cavity from time of transmission, we did not detect viral genomes in the oral wash until one week before symptom onset, at which time viral genomes were present in high copy numbers, suggesting loss of initial viral replication control.

Where is the Center for Immunology?

1 Center for Immunology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America.

Symptoms

See more on cdc.gov

Transmission

Prevention & Treatment

Diagnosing Infectious Mononucleosis