Infectious mononucleosis developed its common name of “kissing disease” from this prevalent form of transmission among teenagers. It typically takes between four to eight weeks for signs of mono to appear after the initial infection with EBV.
A blood chemistry test may reveal abnormalities in liver function. Diagnostic tests performed in the laboratory may be of value to rule out other causes of sore throat and fever, including cytomegalovirus infection, Strep throat, and less common conditions such as acute HIV infection or toxoplasmosis.
With an enlarged spleen: avoid contact sports for at least four weeks.
Mono may return in a milder form within a few months. Mono almost never reappears in full-blown form after a year.