10 things I didn't know about Mono

• 1. Mono is caused by the Epstein -Bar Virus ("EBV")which is a member of the herpesvirus family
• 2. By Adulthood most people have anti-bodies directed against EBV
• 3. Healthy people without symptoms secrete the EBV in their saliva FOR YEARS due to periodic "reactivations" of the viral infection
• 4. It is believed that these previously infected but currently healthy people are the primary reservoir for transmission of EBV among humans
• 5. The incubation period is - up to 6 weeks!
• 6. People who have NEVER "had" mono-- but were exposed and therefore have the virus in their system as well as the anti-bodies -- can still be carriers and spew virus particles in their saliva during reactivations THROUGH OUT THEIR LIFETIME.
• 7. In addition to fatigue, headache, fever, soar throat, swollen glands and enlarged spleen, Hepatitis, Jaundice and a rash are symptoms.
• 8. The EBV virus can live for several hours outside the body and is very contagious
• 9. First identified in 1889 and called "glandular fever" it went through a series of renames and discoveries and eventually in 1964 was discovered to be a member of the Epstein Bar Virus
• 10. The big worry is rupture the spleen, so children and young adults are not allowed to participate in vigorous activities or contact sports (including rough housing with brothers and sisters)

Well that's the list.

Mononucleosis diagnosis is based on a persons age, symptoms and a physical exam. A diagnosis of mononucleosis is made from laboratory tests including:

• Atypical lymphocytes - a type of white blood cell, in the blood. In mononucleosis, these atypical lymphocytes make up more than 10% of total lymphocytes.
• Increased total white blood cell count
• Antibody tests like the mono spot test.
• Additional Epstein Barr antibody tests

Don't forget to check out my blog http://mombloggerworks/blogspot.com and join my group to be automatically notifed of new posts!