Mononucleosis or Mono as referred to by many people, and often called the kissing disease that is spread by kissing, is more commonly spread by coughing, sneezing, or sharing glasses, pop cans, etc.

Caused by the Epstein-Barr virus which usually isn’t serious, but remains in your body for life! Many people are exposed to the Epstein-Barr virus by the time they’re 35 years of age and have built up antibodies. Full grown mono is common in people ages 7 to 35, and the highest incidences are in people between the ages of 15 to 24. Children ages 4 to 15 this virus can cause mild illness that resembles a common respiratory infection, in older adults mono may cause more severe symptoms and last longer. This disease has also come common to children younger than 3 years in nonwestern countries.

Mono will usually develop 4 to 7 weeks after the exposer to the virus. The symptoms for mono usually last about 4 weeks. The virus has a long incubation period of 30 to 50 days. The symptoms usually lessen after about 10 days, although fatigue may last longer.

Some signs and symptoms of Mono are:

• Fatigue
  
• Weakness
  
• Sore Throat
  
• Fever
  
• Swollen Lymph Nodes (located in neck and armpit area)
  
• Swollen Tonsils
  
• Headache
  
• Skin Rash
  
• Loss of Appetite
  
• Soft, Swollen Spleen

• Getting plenty of bed rest
  
• Drink plenty of water and fruit juices
  
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers,... by this Tylenol, Advil, etc. DON'T GIVE ASPRIN TO CHILDREN UNDER 16, because it may trigger a rare but potentially fatal disorder.
  
• Gargle with salt water,... mix one-half teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water.
  
• Suck on hard candy or flavored frozen desserts (Popsicles)