Childhood Diseases and Illnesses
Mononucleosis, Infectious (Epstein-Barr Virus)
Description/Symptoms
- Caused by a virus.
- Symptoms include fever, sore throat, swollen lymph glands, abdominal discomfort, tonsillitis, general body weakness and discomfort, loss of appetite, may have enlarged liver and spleen, rarely jaundice and rash.
- May be contagious for up to a year after infection and may remain throughout life. Over 95% of adults are asymptomatic carriers of the virus
- Duration is from one 4 weeks. Recovery usually occurs in a few weeks but some individuals may remain ill or experience fatigue for up to one year.
- Spread person to person through contact with saliva of infected persons. Contact can include kissing, sharing food or drink, or contact with contaminated hands and objects.
- The period between exposure to the infection and the appearance of symptoms is 4 to 7 weeks (30 to 50 days).
Instructions for Schools
- Does not need to be reported to Peel Health.
- No exclusion needed.
- Student may return to school when well enough to participate.
- Avoid activities that would result in sharing saliva.
- Encourage thorough hand washing (PDF) and respiratory etiquette (PDF).
Notes
- If spleen is enlarged, student should not participate in contact sports.
- Most commonly recognized in high school and post secondary students.
Resources and related links:
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