Infectious Mononucleosis: The 'Kissing Disease'
Recovery takes weeks, not days.
Dr. Hélène Marquet
Infectious Diseases
In simple terms
Epstein-Barr virus causes a self-limited illness most common in adolescents and young adults.
What you need to remember
- Diagnosis — Heterophile antibodies (Monospot) and EBV-specific serology.
Severe sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, profound fatigue, sometimes hepatitis or splenomegaly.
Diagnosis
Heterophile antibodies (Monospot) and EBV-specific serology. Lymphocytosis with atypical lymphocytes.
Management
Rest, hydration, paracetamol. Avoid contact sports for 4 weeks because of splenic rupture risk. Avoid amoxicillin: it causes a non-allergic rash in EBV.
Long view
Fatigue can persist for weeks. EBV reactivation is implicated in some chronic conditions including multiple sclerosis.
Splenomegaly is the main short-term concern: return to sport requires medical clearance.
The words explained
Medical terms used above, in everyday language.
- Chronic
- A problem that lasts a long time, usually more than three months, and often comes back.
- Diagnosis
- The moment a doctor identifies which illness is causing your symptoms.
- Antibody
- A protein your body makes to recognise and neutralise a specific germ.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Infectious Mononucleosis: The 'Kissing Disease'?
- Epstein-Barr virus causes a self-limited illness most common in adolescents and young adults.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of Infectious Mononucleosis: The 'Kissing Disease'?
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for Infectious Mononucleosis: The 'Kissing Disease'?
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
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