When is mono communicable

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.

People who have mono can be contagious from the time they first become infected. But they may not know that they have the virus. Rest and enough fluids are keys to recovery. 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.

Signs and symptoms such as a fever and sore throat usually lessen within a couple of weeks. But fatigue, enlarged lymph nodes and a swollen spleen may last for a few weeks longer. The most common cause of mononucleosis is the Epstein-Barr virus, but other viruses also can cause similar symptoms. This virus is spread through saliva, and you may catch it from kissing or from sharing food or drinks. Although the symptoms of mononucleosis are uncomfortable, the infection resolves on its own without long-term effects.

Most adults have been exposed to the Epstein-Barr virus and have built up antibodies. This means they're immune and won't get mononucleosis. The spleen is a small organ usually about the size of your fist.

But a number of conditions, including liver disease and some cancers, can cause your spleen to become enlarged. Mononucleosis may cause enlargement of the spleen. People who have mono can be contagious from the time they first become infected with the virus. But they may not know that they have the virus at first. This is called the incubation period. To make things even more confusing, some people can carry the virus without ever getting any symptoms of mono.

So they might not even know they have the infection. Mono needs to run its course naturally. They believe that people can spread the infection for many months after their symptoms are completely gone — some studies show as long as 18 months. Note: All information on KidsHealth is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. All rights reserved. People who experience an enlarged spleen from mono should avoid contact sports or heavy lifting.

This care will help to prevent the spleen from rupturing. It is best to see a doctor for any signs of mono. Doctors will usually diagnose mono by assessing symptoms and looking at medical history. They might also require some blood tests. Mono causes symptoms such as fatigue, sore throat, and body aches. Most people will recover from these symptoms within a few weeks.

But the virus is still contagious for several months after symptoms go. 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. The Epstein-Barr virus is a type of herpes virus. It is very common, and because the symptoms are quite general, a doctor may order an Epstein-Barr….

Viruses exist almost everywhere, and they can infect any living organism. Here, learn more about viruses, how they work, and how to get protection. How long is mono contagious and how is it spread? Medically reviewed by Jill Seladi-Schulman, Ph. How long? Factors Symptoms How is it spread?