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 may surprise you.
Is Mono Considered an STD?
Technically yes. Mono falls under the STI umbrella. But unlike your other STDs, that’s not the case 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, you’re much more likely to contract the disease by exchanging spit or having a drink with someone who is infected. That’s why mono has been nicknamed “the kissing disease.”
How does the monovirus become ‘sexually transmitted’?
You may be wondering, “If mono is spread primarily through saliva, how can it be considered a sexually transmitted disease?” Although EBV is most commonly transmitted through everyday activities such as kissing, sharing utensils, or being near someone who is coughing or sneezing, the virus is also present in other bodily fluids. This means that it is possible to contract mono during intimate moments.
But the thing is: mono is not like you ‘common’ sexually transmitted diseasessuch as chlamydia or gonorrhea. You’re much more likely to get mono from a kiss or sipping from your boyfriend’s water bottle than from frolicking 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 is 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 approximately 90% of adults in the United States have been infected with EBV by age 35. However, many people who contract EBV do not develop symptoms of mononucleosis.
Mono is most common among teens and young adults, especially college students. This is due to the fact that people in this age group often engage in activities that facilitate the spread of the virus, such as kissing, sharing drinks and living in small spaces such as dormitories.
The good news is that most people who contract the virus only get it once. After infection, your body develops immunity to EBV, protecting you from future mononucleosis infections.
How do I know if I have Mono?
Mono can cause a variety of symptoms, some of which may be similar to other illnesses such as 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 is important to note that some symptoms usually develop four to six weeks after exposure to the virus and can last for several weeks. Some people, especially young children, can have the virus without ever showing symptoms.
Preventions, treatment options and more
Unfortunately, there is no vaccine to prevent mono. However, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of contracting the virus:
- Avoid kissing or other intimate contact with someone who has mono or has recently had mono.
- Don’t share drinks, food, or personal items (such as toothbrushes) with others, especially with someone who is or was recently ill.
- Wash your hands regularly, especially before eating and after going to the toilet.
- Boost your immune system by getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet and managing stress.
Treatment
If you get mono, treatment usually involves self-care and managing your symptoms while your body fights the infection. There is no specific antiviral treatment for mono. Treatment for mono often includes:
- Make sure you get enough rest: Mono can cause severe fatigue, so listen to your body and sleep as much as necessary.
- Staying hydrated: Drink plenty of water, juice, and other clear liquids 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, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help relieve fever, headaches, and muscle aches.
- Avoid strenuous activities: Avoid strenuous activities, especially if you have a fever or a swollen spleen, as this can cause your spleen to rupture.
Timeline
In most cases, symptoms of mono clear up within a few weeks, although 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 because your body develops immunity to the virus.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get mono from casual contact, such as shaking hands?
No, mono is not spread through casual contact, such as shaking hands or hugging. The virus is mainly spread through saliva, so activities such as kissing or sharing drinks are the most common ways the virus is transmitted.
How long is someone with Mono contagious?
People with mono are usually contagious for a few weeks to several months after infection. The virus can remain dormant in the body for life and periodically reactivate, although this reactivated virus usually does not cause symptoms or make you contagious again.
Can I get Mono more than once?
Although rare, it is possible to get mono multiple times. However, once you are infected with EBV, your body usually develops strong immunity against the virus, reducing your risk of another full-blown mononucleosis infection.
How can I tell the difference between mono and strep throat?
Monothroat and strep throat can both cause severe sore throats, but there are some important differences:
- Mono often causes extreme fatigue, while strep throat usually does not.
- Strep throat often causes red and swollen tonsils with white spots, while mono typically causes swollen tonsils without white spots.
- Mono often causes swollen lymph nodes, while strep throat usually does not.
Basically, 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 is no specific cure for mono. Treatment aims to control the symptoms and allow the body to fight the infection. Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers are the best ways to treat the infection.
The bottom line: Mono and STDs
Although mononucleosis is technically considered a sexually transmitted infection, it is important to understand that sexual contact is not the primary mode of transmission of this virus. Mono is much more likely to be spread through everyday activities such as kissing, sharing a drink or having 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 every year, and in most cases it is not a cause for serious concern.