Mononucleosis: Causes

What causes mononucleosis?

Infectious mononucleosis is caused by infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It is transmitted through saliva from one person to another, hence its nickname, “kissing disease.” When you are exposed to the virus, your immune system will develop antibodies and launch an immune reaction, producing the associated flu-like symptoms. Symptoms may appear up to four to six weeks after infection.

People with the infectious form of the disease can transmit it to others, but isolation is not necessary, since many healthy people carry the virus in their saliva.

What are the risk factors for mononucleosis?

Some factors increase the risk of developing mononucleosis. Not all people with risk factors will get mononucleosis. Risk factors for mononucleosis include:

• Contact with saliva from an infected person
• Other forms of exposure to contagious persons

Reducing your risk of mononucleosis

You can reduce your risk of developing mononucleosis infection by:

• Avoiding contact with a contagious person
• Avoiding saliva exchange with an infected person