QUESTION:
Dear Dr. Heller,
Is Epstein Barr Syndrome communicable? If so, how is it done? Is it considered a serious illness? And how does one get it? If you can answer any of these for me that would be great..Thanks
ANSWER:
The virus is communicable, mainly by oral secretions such as through kissing. It is not highly contagious. The infection is often called “mono” or “mononucleosis.” It’s main symptoms are fatigue, fever, sore throat and swollen glands. Approximately ½ of patients get a temporarily enlarged spleen.