How to Prevent Mononucleosis

Mononucleosis, more commonly known as mono, is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. Generally, mono manifests itself similarly to the flu. Symptoms of mono include constant fatigue, sore muscles, headaches, fever, swollen lymph nodes and sore muscles. Mono is generally spread via close contact such as kissing. However, it can be spread via airborne mucus or saliva. If you employ careful preventive steps, you can reduce the likelihood that you'll get mononucleosis.

Things You'll Need

• Antibacterial soap
• Disinfectant
• Paper towels
• Healthy diet
• Multivitamin

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Instructions

• 1

  Wash your hands often, using antibacterial soap. Wash immediately if you have touched someone with mono or if you have touched communal doorknobs or other areas.

• 2

  Do not share eating or drink utensils. While you should certainly avoid sharing utensils with anyone who has mono, it's best to simply avoid sharing with anyone altogether. Someone who has mono may not yet know he is infected.

• 3

  Avoid kissing someone who has mono. Kissing is one of the most common ways that mono is spread.

• 4

  Cover your face if someone infected with mono sneezes or coughs. Since saliva or mucus particles are often spread via sneezing or coughing, you must take care to ensure they don't end up in or on your body--particularly your face.

• 5

  Clean common areas frequently. If you share common space with someone who has mono, wipe down the shared areas with disinfectant regularly. This includes counters, tabletops, toilet seats and doorknobs.

• 6

  Keep your immune system strong. Get plenty of sleep nightly and eat a healthy diet, rich in vitamins and nutrients. You can further fortify your immune system by taking a multivitamin daily.