Infectious mononucleosis is an illness caused by a virus called the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). This condition is also known as glandular fever. Found in the saliva of infected people, the Epstein-Barr virus can be spread by kissing, coughs and sneezes, and sharing contaminated eating and drinking utensils. Infectious mononucleosis is most common in young adults.
The infection does not always produce symptoms, and people may be unaware that they are infected.
When symptoms do occur, they usually do so about 4 to 8 weeks after infection.
Symptoms may include fever; a sore throat; swollen tonsils; swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, and groin; extreme tiredness; and sometimes a rash and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). There is no specific treatment for infectious mononucleosis, but over- the-counter pain relievers may relieve symptoms, and plenty of rest may reduce tiredness. Alcohol and contact sports should be avoided while recovering, because the virus may have affected the liver or spleen.
Most people recover within about 2 to 3 weeks, although tiredness may sometimes persist for months.

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