Mono is a mystery illness for many, as most of us have heard about it but don’t actually know what it is.

In short, mono is a viral illness that most often affects young adults and teens and causes symptoms like excessive fatigue and body aches for up to a month. What causes this illness, though, and how contagious is it?

Our AFC Urgent Care Clemson team shares some helpful answers below, so keep reading!

How Is Mono Caused?

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is the most common cause of infectious mononucleosis, or “mono.” Additionally, mono is referred to as the “kissing disease” because it is spread by bodily fluids such as saliva. While mono is a contagious illness, it isn’t as contagious as some viruses, such as the common cold.

If you the symptoms that we’ve listed below, you likely have mono.

Common Mono Symptoms

• Extreme fatigue
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Head and body aches
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck and armpits
• Swollen liver or spleen or both
• Rash

Is Mono a Cause for Serious Concern?

Typically, no. While it’s true that mono’s symptoms can linger for months in some cases, most instances of this virus will get better in about a month without the necessity of medical treatment.

Something to keep in mind, though, is after you’re done with the symptoms of mono, the virus will lie dormant in the body. Most people who get mono only have to deal with it once, but the virus can reawaken and cause symptoms again; however, this really only happens with people who have weakened immune systems.

Ways to Prevent Mono

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle, since a healthy individual is better prepared to ward off any virus when exposed.
• Eat a nutritional diet and get adequate sleep, which is between seven and nine hours each night.
• Exercise for at least 150 minutes each week, since consistent exercise keeps the body fit and less likely to catch any viral illnesses.

Ready to feel better? We can help! Visit our AFC Urgent Care Clemson team today.