Nobody likes to be unhealthy, but unfortunately, in today's world, it is very easy to catch and spread viruses from one person to another. Mononucleosis, commonly called "mono", is caused by the Epstein Barr virus, which causes an increase in ceratin types of white blood cells and can leave one feeling very ill for long periods of time if not treated quickly and correctly.
Although mononucleosis can certainly find its way into your body, there are many ways to go about infectious mononucleosis prevention. For starters, knowing the symptoms is most important. Sore throat, fever, and swollen glands are all early symptoms of infectious mononucleosis. Following these simple rules can aid you greatly in infectuous mononucleosis prevention.
Do not share silverware, drinks, or kiss someone who has mono. A good rule of thumb is to practice this rule regarding anyone who is sick at all, but if you definitely know they have infectious mononucleosis, DO NOT partake in any activity which could allow you to exchange saliva. Wash your hands often and thoroughly. Also, do not give blood if you have infectious mononucleosis. It is not common that mono or the Epstein Barr virus can spread through blood, but when practicing infectious mononucleosis prevention, it never hurts to be too careful.
Also commonly called "kissing disease", infectious mononucleosis is most commonly found to attack the immune systems of people in their teens and early twenties (with a peak at ages 15 - 17), as most adults bodies have already started to produce antibodies for the virus by the age of 30. Once a person has been infected with mono and cured, they will continue to produce the virus in their saliva for years, however it is not necessary to be isolated. Although age greatly reduces the risk of catching mono, infectious mononucleosis prevention is still very important for people of all ages!