Mononucleosis / Epstein Barr Virus

Infectious mononucleosis (mono) is often called the kissing disease. The virus that causes mono is transmitted through saliva, so you can get it through kissing, but you can also be exposed through a cough or sneeze, or by sharing a glass or food utensils with someone who has mono.

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a widespread human herpes virus, can cause mononucleosis — but usually it doesn’t. In fact, most EBV infections aren’t noticeable, even when they’re most active in your body. The virus lives in a person’s salivary glands and may be spread through saliva.

Donor requirements for participation:

• You must be clinically diagnosed by a medical professional. Confirmation of the diagnosis and/or treatment must be verified with your physician.
• Be pre-screened to determine eligibility.
• You’re willing to donate plasma through the apheresis process.
• You must have a photo ID and be able to provide your social security number or proof of citizenship.
• You must be at least 18 years old.
• You must weight at least 110 lbs.
• You must disclose if you have ever been diagnosed with Hepatitis C and/or HIV.

For questions and concerns about requirements or participation, contact us at (833) GO-4-CURE.

Symptoms

Fatigue, general malaise sore throat, perhaps a strep-throat that doesn’t get better with antibiotic use, fever, swollen lymph nodes in your neck and armpits, swollen tonsils, headache, skin rash, or soft, swollen spleen.

Treatment

Rest and adequate fluids are key to recovery.

This information is not meant for clinical diagnosis, but as an educational resource derived from Mayo Clinic.