Glandular Fever in Children

Glandular fever, also known as mononucleosis and sometimes referred to as the "kissing disease," is a common illness among older children, teenagers and young adults. A viral infection, mononucleosis is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. It most often affects people between the ages of 10 and 25.

Contraction

• Mononucleosis is contracted through saliva and through airborne droplets. Kissing is one way in which it is spread, and because it is common in teenagers, this form of contraction has led to it being called the "kissing disease."

Contagion

• The Epstein-Barr virus is contagious through a long incubation period. The infection may incubate from 30 to 50 days before the first symptoms appear.

Symptoms

• Sore throat, swollen lymph nodes and extreme fatigue are the most recognizable symptoms of glandular fever. In addition, the child suffering from the disease may have flu-like symptoms, fever, muscle pains, headache, sweats, stomach pain and rash.

Diagnosis

• To diagnose mononucleosis, the physician will make an initial determination based upon the symptoms. This will be confirmed using a blood sample and throat swab.

Treatment

• There is no specific treatment for the Epstein-Barr virus. Patients are generally advised to get lots of rest, avoid strenuous physical exercise and to drink plenty of fluids. Symptoms generally resolve within two to four weeks.

Complications

• The Epstein-Barr virus causes enlargement of the spleen and in extremely rare instances will cause the spleen to rupture. Because of this, patients are advised not to exercise until four weeks after the illness has passed.