Mononucleosis is an infectious illness that’s sometimes called mono or “the kissing disease.” While you can get the virus that causes it through kissing, you can also get it in other ways like sharing drinks or utensils. It’s contagious, but you’re less likely to catch mono than other illnesses like the common cold.
While mono isn’t usually a serious illness, there have been certain cases of complications that lead to more serious health issues.
Mononucleosis, usually only called mono, is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus which is actually a common virus that you may be exposed as a child. Some people may carry the virus and never have a symptom associated with mono.
Mono is one of the more common viruses one can get; its part of the herpes family. Here is an astounding stat: About 85 to 90% of adults in the United States are infected with the virus by the time they are 40!
Spread by bodily fluids, saliva is actually the most common way the virus spreads; so naturally, kissing is the more popular way that mono is spread. EVB is also sometimes spread through blood or semen, but again, those are more rare occurrences in the spread of the virus.
Symptoms associated with mono include fever, fatigue, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, sore muscles and possible loss of appetite.
Most people with mono begin to recover once it flares up within 2-4 weeks, but its reported that fatigue can last for several weeks after.
Mono sometimes causes a rash, but it’s not as common or seen as much as the other symptoms. If you get a mono rash, it may be most likely a symptom of the infection, especially if you have taken antibiotics for your sore throat.
It’s strongly recommended that you see a doctor to see if your rash is caused by mononucleosis and are usually confirmed by running blood test.
Treatment For A Mono Rash
A mono rash should go away on its own as your body recovers from the infection. If you have itchiness associated with the rash, they can be relieved with antihistamines, like Benadryl, and topical steroids.
There is no ‘cure’ for a mono rash. The way to get rid of the mono rash is by subsiding mono in your body which will eliminate the rash altogether. Be sure to consult with your doctor or a medical professional before you buy over the counter.
BOTTOM LINE
A rash isn’t the most common symptom of mononucleosis, but it does occur frequently. Like mononucleosis, treatment of a mononucleosis rash is symptomatic, mainly to relieve itchiness.
A rash often develops if you take amoxicillin or ampicillin while you have mononucleosis, and you may need to treat the symptoms of that rash.
