It most often occurs in adolescents, anywhere from 15 to 19 years of age, although it can affect those in any age group. Humans are the only known reservoir for EBV, so logically the infection can spread among humans. Spread usually requires close contact, most commonly transmitted through saliva, one reason why it is often also called the 'kissing disease'. Overall the virus has very low transmissibility and does not occur in epidemics. Isolation is not necessary.

Symptoms

Mononucleosis causes fever, head ache, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, particularly those of the neck, and severe fatigue. Mono may also cause a skin rash, especially if the individual is being treated with ampicillin or amoxicillin for a concurrent throat infection.

Prognosis

In general, fever and sore throat should be gone within 10 days of onset, although swollen lymph nodes and spleen enlargement, if any, may take a month to clear. Fatigue can last for months, in some individuals. In some cases, anti-virals or prednisone may be prescribed, but there is usually little effects. There is also some data to suggest that EBV and steroid use leads to a higher risk of developing inflammatory bowel diseases, like Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's. More research needs to be done before a causal relationship can be determined. As Mono is caused by a virus, antibiotics do not have an affect on the infection. It is considered a self-limited disease, in that it simply has to run its course.

Natural Support

That being said, there are some natural treatment options that can help to shorten the duration of symptoms and get those suffering from Mono back on the feet a little more quickly. Olive leaf extract, Elderberry and Astragalus all have anti-viral properties and have been used to speed recovery and decrease symptomology from variety of viral infections. Vitamin C to bowel tolerance, as well as a b-complex, and 3000IU vitamin D can all go a long way in supporting the immune system, help to speed recovery and increase energy faster.

Diet

There are also some simple diet and lifestyle suggestions that can help. There has been some research to suggest that the virus may feed off animal protein, and it is recommended that individuals with an acute mono infection try to keep animal protein to a minimum. Amino acid blends or vegetable protein should be considered as alternative. If weight loss is an issue due to loss of appetite, try smoothies with whey protein and a greens supplement or get juicing and alternate with a vitamin packed fresh juice. These will be easy to ingest and breakdown while providing the necessary nutrients to support the immune system. Avoid processed foods, foods high in sugar (another substance viruses feed off of) , caffeine and fried foods. STAY HYDRATED

Lifestyle

Your doctor will most likely check of any liver or spleen enlargement. If they don't, insist on it. In some individuals the spleen can be palpated a few inched below the left costo-sternal margin (below the ribs). Try to avoid any contact sports for at least the first couple weeks after mono is diagnosed, although some doctors recommend taking it easy for a good 2 months. If there is splenomegaly, trauma or force (even deep palpation) to the area can lead to splenic rupture, which can be very serious. The liver can also become enlarged and in some cases, individuals may become jaundiced. This should be short lived and liver function will recuperate once the virus has run its' course. Lastly (although you may not need anyone telling you this), SLEEP. The fatigue associated with Mononucleosis can be overwhelming. Listen to the cues your body is sending you and sleep whenever, as often, and as long as your body will allow.