Mononucleosis, often called “mono,” is a common viral infection that can leave you feeling exhausted and unwell for weeks or even months. But is mono an STD? The answer might surprise you.
Is Mono Considered an STD?
Technically, yes. Mono falls under the STI umbrella. But unlike your other STDs, it’s not exclusively transmitted through sexual contact. Mono is caused by the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV). And while it’s true that EBV can spread during sex, it’s way more likely that you’ll catch it from swapping spit or sharing a drink with someone who’s infected. That’s why mono has earned the nickname “the kissing disease.”
How Is the Mono Virus “Sexually Transmitted?”
You might be wondering, “If mono is mainly spread through saliva, how can it be considered a sexually transmitted disease?” Well, even though EBV is most commonly transmitted through everyday activities like kissing, sharing utensils, or being around someone who’s coughing or sneezing, the virus is also present in other bodily fluids. This means it’s possible to contract mono during intimate moments.
But here’s the thing: mono isn’t like your “common” sexually transmitted diseases, such as chlamydia or gonorrhea. You’re much more likely to get mono from a kiss or sipping from your friend’s water bottle than from getting frisky between the sheets.
So, while it’s technically correct to say that mono can be transmitted sexually, labeling it as an STD can be a bit misleading. It’s more accurate to describe mono as a virus that can be spread through sexual activity but is most often transmitted through non-sexual means.
How Common is Mono?
The CDC estimates that about 90% of adults in the United States have been infected with EBV by the age of 35. However, many people who contract EBV do not go on to develop mononucleosis symptoms.
Mono is most common among teenagers and young adults, especially college students. This due to the fact that people in this age group tend to engage in activities that facilitate the spread of the virus, like kissing, sharing drinks, and living in close quarters like dorms.
The good news is that most people who contract the virus will only get it once. After infection, your body develops immunity to EBV, protecting you from future mononucleosis infections.
How Can I Tell If I Have Mono?
Mono can cause various symptoms, some of which may be similar to other illnesses like the flu. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Fever
- Sore throat, often quite severe
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck and armpits
- Extreme fatigue
- Headache
- Skin rash
- Swollen liver or spleen (less common
It’s important to note that some symptoms usually develop 4-6 weeks after exposure to the virus and can last for several weeks. Some people, especially young children, may have the virus without ever showing symptoms.
Preventions, Treatment Options, and More
Unfortunately, there’s no vaccine to prevent mono. However, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of contracting the virus:
- Avoid kissing or engaging in other intimate contact with someone who has mono or who has recently had mono.
- Don’t share drinks, food, or personal items (like toothbrushes) with others, especially with someone who is or was recently sick.
- Wash your hands frequently, particularly before eating and after using the restroom.
- Boost your immune system by getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and managing stress.
Treatment
If you do contract mono, treatment generally involves self-care and managing your symptoms while your body fights off the infection. There’s no specific antiviral treatment for mono. Treatment for mono often includes:
- Getting plenty of rest: Mono can cause severe fatigue, so listen to your body and sleep as much as you need to.
- Staying hydrated: Drink plenty of water, juice, and other clear fluids to keep your throat moist and prevent dehydration.
- Gargling with salt water: This can help relieve a sore throat.
- OTC Pain Relievers: Taking over-the-counter pain relievers, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help relieve fever, headache, and muscle aches.
- Avoid strenuous activities: Avoid strenuous activities, especially while you have a fever or swollen spleen, as this could cause your spleen to rupture.
Timeline
In most cases, the symptoms of mono subside within a few weeks, though some people may experience fatigue for several months after the initial infection. The good news is that once you’ve had mono, you’re unlikely to get it again as your body develops immunity to the virus.
FAQs
Can I Get Mono From Casual Contact, like Shaking Hands?
No, mono is not spread through casual contact like shaking hands or hugging. The virus is primarily spread through saliva, so activities like kissing or sharing drinks are the most common ways the virus is transmitted.
How Long Is Someone With Mono Contagious?
People with mono are typically contagious for several weeks to several months after infection. The virus can remain dormant in the body for life and periodically reactivate, though this reactivated virus usually doesn’t cause symptoms or make you contagious again.
Can I get Mono More than Once?
While it’s rare, it is possible to get mono more than once. However, once you’ve been infected with EBV, your body usually develops a strong immunity to the virus which reduces your risk of another full-blown mononucleosis infection.
How can I tell the Difference Between Mono and Strep Throat?
Mono and strep throat can both cause severe sore throat, but there are some key differences:
- Mono often causes extreme fatigue, whereas strep throat usually doesn’t.
- Strep throat often causes red and swollen tonsils with white patches, while mono typically causes swollen tonsils without white patches.
- Mono often causes swollen lymph nodes, while strep throat usually doesn’t.
In short, strep throat is caused by a bacterial infection and can be treated with antibiotics, while mono is caused by a virus, and antibiotics are ineffective.
Is There a Cure for Mono?
There’s no specific cure for mono. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and allowing the body to fight off the infection. Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers are the best ways to treat the infection.
The Bottom Line: Mono & STDs
While mononucleosis is technically considered a sexually transmitted infection, it’s important to understand that sexual contact is not the primary mode of transmission for this virus. Mono is much more likely to be spread through everyday activities like kissing, sharing drinks, or being in close contact with someone who is infected.
So, if you or someone you know has been diagnosed with mono, there’s no need to panic about the sexual implications. Mono is a common viral infection that affects millions of people each year, and in most cases, it’s not a cause for serious concern.