Common early mono signs are fatigue, fever, and a sore throat. The term ‘mono’ is the commonly used abbreviated form for ‘mononucleosis’, the proper term for this condition.

Mono is caused by a severe infection with the Epstein-Barr virus. As many as 95% of adults will have a mild Epstein-Barr virus infection at one time in their lives.

A severe infection may occur in teenagers and young adults. This infectious mononucleosis can be transmitted person-to-person from close contact.

Mono varies widely in severity. Different strains of the virus may be responsible for this variation. Mono infection symptoms are typically detected 30-50 days following exposure and infection.

Mono infection signs:

• extreme fatigue
• fever
• sore throat (pus in throat may form)
• swelling of lymph nodes (most commonly in the neck)
• general feeling of illness
• jaundice of the eyes
• skin rash
• seizures
• behaviour abnormalities

Diagnosis is typically through blood testing.

Mono treatment is typically bed rest and with pain relievers of the NSAID family. Symptom relief is the key focus.