• English
    X

    Google Translate Disclaimer

    The Maryland Department of Information Technology (“DoIT”) offers translations of the content through Google Translate. Because Google Translate is an external website, DoIT does not control the quality or accuracy of translated content. All DoIT content is filtered through Google Translate which may result in unexpected and unpredictable degradation of portions of text, images and the general appearance on translated pages. Google Translate may maintain unique privacy and use policies. These policies are not controlled by DoIT and are not associated with DoIT’s privacy and use policies. After selecting a translation option, users will be notified that they are leaving DoIT’s website. Users should consult the original English content on DoIT’s website if there are any questions about the translated content.

    DoIT uses Google Translate to provide language translations of its content. Google Translate is a free, automated service that relies on data and technology to provide its translations. The Google Translate feature is provided for informational purposes only. Translations cannot be guaranteed as exact or without the inclusion of incorrect or inappropriate language. Google Translate is a third-party service and site users will be leaving DoIT to utilize translated content. As such, DoIT does not guarantee and does not accept responsibility for, the accuracy, reliability, or performance of this service nor the limitations provided by this service, such as the inability to translate specific files like PDFs and graphics (e.g. .jpgs, .gifs, etc.).

    DoIT provides Google Translate as an online tool for its users, but DoIT does not directly endorse the website or imply that it is the only solution available to users. All site visitors may choose to use alternate tools for their translation needs. Any individuals or parties that use DoIT content in translated form, whether by Google Translate or by any other translation services, do so at their own risk. DoIT is not liable for any loss or damages arising out of, or issues related to, the use of or reliance on translated content. DoIT assumes no liability for any site visitor’s activities in connection with use of the Google Translate functionality or content.

    The Google Translate service is a means by which DoIT offers translations of content and is meant solely for the convenience of non-English speaking users of the website. The translated content is provided directly and dynamically by Google; DoIT has no direct control over the translated content as it appears using this tool. Therefore, in all contexts, the English content, as directly provided by DoIT is to be held authoritative.

    Mononucleosis Fact Sheet

    PDF Version of this Fact Sheet

    Infectious mononucleosis ('mono') is caused by a virus

    The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) that causes mononucleosis is a type of herpes virus. The virus infects a certain type of white blood cell called “B lymphocytes.”

    The virus is shed in saliva and spreads through direct contact

    EBV spreads through contact with the saliva of another person who has the virus. Kissing and contact with hands or toys soiled with infected saliva are common ways to spread the virus. EBV is shed in the saliva during the illness and for many months after infection. The virus can reactivate later and be shed again from the mouth and throat.

    Symptoms to look for may include:

    • Fever
    • Sore throat
    • Swollen glands (especially in the back of the neck)
    • Tiredness

    Symptoms start 30 to 50 days after exposure. Many people (especially infants and young children) catch mononucleosis and only have mild symptoms similar to the common cold. Older children and young adults are more likely to have worse symptoms. For this reason, 'mono' is more often recognized in high school and college-age students. Symptoms can last from one to several weeks.

    Almost everyone catches mononucleosis during their life

    As many as 95% of adults in the United States have been infected by the time they are 35 or 40 years old.

    No treatment other than rest is needed for most people with mononucleosis

    You can prevent EBV infection

    Avoid contact with the saliva of someone who has mononucleosis or who recently had it. Keep children's toys clean and out of the mouths of others. Persons with a recent EBV infection should not donate blood.