![]() Then, white blood cells called B lymphocytes can spread the infection to other body parts, including the liver and spleen. When the EBV enters the body, it first infects the lining of the throat. However, stringent testing of transfused blood and transplanted organs means that the risk of developing glandular fever through these ways is very low. ![]() The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) note that the virus can also spread through contact with semen or blood and through an organ transplant. It is sometimes called the “kissing disease.” It is also possible to pass on glandular fever, or infectious mononucleosis, through kissing. It is possible to spread the infection through coughing, sneezing, or sharing items such as utensils and cups, for example. If a pregnant person develops any of these infections, treatment with antibiotics and antibodies may be necessary.Ī person who has an EBV infection can pass it on through bodily fluids, such as saliva. Other causes of glandular feverīeyond the EBV, cytomegalovirus and rubella, sometimes called German measles, can also cause glandular fever.Īlso, people may develop similar symptoms if they have toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection.Ĭytomegalovirus, rubella, and toxoplasmosis can affect a fetus. Less commonly, the illness affects people in other age groups. It mainly appears in those ages 15–24 years.Īt least 1 in 4 young adults with EBV infections develop glandular fever. However, an EBV infection does not always lead to glandular fever or symptoms.Ī person who contracts the infection as a teenager or young adult is more likely to develop glandular fever. This can occasionally cause symptoms, especially in a person with a weakened immune system. Sometimes, however, the virus becomes active again. The antibodies provide lifelong immunity, and glandular fever rarely comes back a second time. The virus remains in the body for life, lying dormant in the throat and blood cells. When it happens, the immune system produces antibodies to fight the virus. Most EBV infections occur during early childhood. If the infection causes inflammation of the tonsils, a doctor may prescribe a short course of corticosteroids. Gargling with salt water or a solution from a pharmacy may help relieve a sore throat. Pain relief medication, such as ibuprofen (Advil) and acetaminophen (Tylenol), are available over-the-counter and online. This will help prevent dehydration, especially if there is a fever.Ī sore throat can make it hard to swallow, but it is important to consume enough fluids. However, even without treatment, most people find that their symptoms go away within 2–4 weeks, though fatigue can last longer.Ī person can take the following steps to help the body heal: RestĪ person with glandular fever often feels too tired and unwell to continue with their typical routine, but complete rest is key, especially in the first month after symptoms have appeared.Īs the person recovers, light exercise may help them regain muscle strength. There is no cure for glandular fever some people experience symptoms for 6 months or longer. Jaundice and hepatitis should disappear as the person recovers from glandular fever. jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes.In rare cases, it can also cause acute liver failure. In rare cases, EBV can cause mild inflammation of the liver, known as hepatitis. The swelling may cause mild pain in the upper left part of the abdomen. The spleen may also swell as the body combats the virus, and the person may be able to feel it beneath their ribs. The spleen is part of the immune system and sits under the ribs on the left side of the abdomen. The swelling can occur in any lymph node, but those in the neck and armpits are usually the most prominent. The lymph nodes and spleenĪs the immune system fights the virus, the lymph nodes swell. If what seems like severe tonsillitis lasts longer than usual, the person may have glandular fever. The soreness can be mild, but it is often severe and occurs with redness and swelling, similar to tonsilitis. pain in the upper abdomen due to a swollen spleen.malaise, fatigue, tiredness, and weakness.a temperature of 100.4☏ (38☌) or higher.flu-like symptoms, including body aches and a headache.When a person develops glandular fever, the symptoms usually appear 4–6 weeks after the initial infection.
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