Summary about Disease
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is a common viral infection that can cause infectious mononucleosis (mono), also known as the "kissing disease." However, many people infected with EBV never develop symptoms or experience only mild, cold-like symptoms. After the initial infection, EBV remains latent (dormant) in the body for life. It can reactivate, but this usually doesn't cause symptoms in healthy individuals.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the individual and age. In children, EBV infection often causes no symptoms or mild symptoms that are easily mistaken for other common illnesses. In adolescents and adults, the symptoms of infectious mononucleosis can include:
Fatigue (extreme tiredness)
Fever
Sore throat
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck and armpits
Headache
Skin rash
Swollen tonsils
Enlarged spleen and/or liver (less common)
Causes
EBV is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, a member of the herpesvirus family. It spreads primarily through bodily fluids, especially saliva. Common routes of transmission include:
Kissing (hence the nickname "kissing disease")
Sharing drinks, food, or utensils
Coughing or sneezing
Contact with objects contaminated with saliva (e.g., toys)
Medicine Used
There is no specific antiviral medication to cure EBV infection or infectious mononucleosis. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms. Common approaches include:
Rest: Getting plenty of rest is crucial for recovery.
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help with fever, headache, and sore throat. Aspirin should be avoided in children and adolescents due to the risk of Reye's syndrome.
Sore throat remedies: Gargling with warm salt water, throat lozenges, and throat sprays can help soothe a sore throat.
Corticosteroids: In rare cases, if complications arise, such as severe tonsil swelling obstructing the airway, a doctor may prescribe corticosteroids.
Is Communicable
Yes, EBV infection is communicable. It is most contagious during the acute phase of infection, when symptoms are present. However, it's also possible to transmit the virus even when asymptomatic, especially after a reactivation. EBV stays in the body for life, and can be shed intermittantly.
Precautions
To prevent the spread of EBV:
Avoid sharing drinks, food, and utensils, especially when someone is sick.
Practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing.
Avoid close contact, such as kissing, with individuals who have symptoms of EBV infection.
Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
If you have mono, avoid strenuous activities, especially contact sports, to reduce the risk of spleen rupture.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of symptoms varies. The acute phase of infectious mononucleosis typically lasts 2-4 weeks, but fatigue can persist for several weeks or even months in some individuals. Most people recover fully within a few months.
How is it diagnosed?
EBV infection is usually diagnosed based on symptoms and a physical examination. Doctors often order blood tests to confirm the diagnosis. These tests may include:
Monospot test: A rapid test that detects heterophile antibodies, which are often present in people with mono. However, this test can sometimes give false-negative results early in the infection.
EBV-specific antibody tests: These tests measure antibodies to different EBV proteins. They can help determine if someone has a current or past EBV infection.
Complete blood count (CBC): This test can show elevated white blood cell counts, which are common in EBV infection.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms can vary, but a general progression is as follows:
Incubation period: 4-6 weeks (time between infection and onset of symptoms)
Prodromal period: A few days of mild symptoms, such as fatigue and malaise.
Acute phase: 2-4 weeks of more severe symptoms, including fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue.
Recovery phase: Gradual improvement of symptoms over several weeks or months. Fatigue may linger for some time.
Important Considerations
EBV is very common. Most people are infected with EBV at some point in their lives, often during childhood.
While most people recover fully from EBV infection, in rare cases, complications can occur, such as spleen rupture, liver inflammation, neurological problems, and secondary infections.
EBV has been linked to certain cancers, including Burkitt's lymphoma and nasopharyngeal carcinoma. However, these cancers are rare, and EBV infection is just one of several factors that may contribute to their development.
If you have symptoms of EBV infection, see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.