Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
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What is mononucleosis?

Mononucleosis (mono) is a sickness caused by the Epstein- Barr virus. The virus is spread through saliva from coughing, sneezing, and kissing.

Your child will probably have:

• a very bad sore throat with positive blood test for mono
• swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, and groin
• fever for 7 to 14 days
• enlarged spleen (in 50% of children).

Most children have symptoms for a week. Those with very bad symptoms usually feel completely well in 2 to 4 weeks.

How can I take care of my child?

• Give fever and pain medicines. No specific medicine will cure mono. Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen for the pain of swollen lymph nodes and fever.
• Treat the sore throat. Give soft foods. Children over age 1 can sip warm chicken broth. Children over age 4 can suck on hard candy.
• Let your child rest. Your child can select how much rest he or she needs.
• Be careful not to injure your child's enlarged spleen. All children with mono should avoid contact sports for at least 4 weeks. Your child should avoid heavy lifting and getting constipated.
• Don't spread mono. Use separate drinking glasses and utensils and avoid kissing.

Call your child's doctor right away if:

• Breathing becomes difficult or noisy.
• Abdominal pain occurs (especially high on your child's left side).
• Signs of dehydration occur.
• Your child starts acting very sick.

Call your child's doctor in 24 hours if:

• Your child isn't drinking enough fluids.
• Sinus or ear pain occurs.
• Your child isn't back to school by 2 weeks.
• Any symptoms remain after 4 weeks.
• You have other questions or concerns.