EBV, or the Epstein-Barr virus, a form of herpes, causes a latent, long-term, but non-threatening infection in more than 90% of adults. This same virus is also responsible for causing Mononucleosis – a contagious infection with some flu-like symptoms. It is known as “the kissing disease” because of how it spreads from kissing or sharing food and utensils, Mono may be caused by other viruses too.
If you are suffering from some illness that weakens your immune system, it is possible for a latent Mono infection to get activated. COVID-19 may be one such illness. Two small studies have recently suggested that or long COVID may reactivate the infection caused by EBV. If this happens, it is not entirely impossible for you to contract Mono and COVID at the same time. Continue reading to learn about both of them in detail.
Epstein-Barr symptoms are so similar to those of COVID-19 that it may be difficult for you to determine which one you have contracted. The easiest way to determine this is by getting tested at an urgent care in Canton, MI.
To help you determine if you have COVID-19 or Mono, listed below are the symptoms of the diseases.
While Mononucleosis symptoms may trouble you for a month or two, the duration of COVID-19 symptoms depends on the strength of the virus.
There is no set medical procedure, vaccine, or cure for Mono. The treatment will be suggested by your doctor depending on your symptoms. However, what is important is that you sleep enough and consume plenty of fluids to help your body fight off the infection. Physical activity must be kept to a minimum. You can soothe the soreness of your throat by gargling salt water or using throat lozenges. Over-the-counter medication may be prescribed by your medical advisor to ease the head and body aches and the swelling of lymph glands.
COVID-19 may be cured in similar ways in case of mild infections. Rest, isolation from others, hydration, and some medication may be prescribed to ease COVID-19 symptoms. In case of severe infection, you might need hospitalization.
The regulations for the prevention of COVID-19 are common parlance now. Vaccines against COVID-19 are readily available. Also, maintaining hygiene, the use of face masks, social distancing, and testing even for mild symptoms prevent virulent cases of COVID-19 infections.
Unfortunately, no vaccine is available for Mono as yet. The most effective way to ward off viruses is to take care of hygiene. Be careful when you are sharing drinks or food with others. Prevent contact with any person who has symptoms like fever, rash, cough, or cold.
While not as contagious as the common cold, Mono is still very contagious. While COVID-19 spreads through air particles, viruses that cause Mononucleosis are usually found in saliva. Mono can spread through sharing utensils, food or drink, sneezing or coughing, kissing, sexual contact, and blood transfusions.
HSV or the Herpes Simplex virus infection leads to oral and genital herpes and can usually be transmitted sexually. As mentioned before, Epstein-Barr is also a type of herpes virus. This virus may also be sexually transmitted, but it is more commonly transmitted through kissing and sharing food, drinks, and utensils with an impacted person.
If you are exhibiting any of the symptoms mentioned here or if you suspect you might be infected with Mono or COVID or Mono and COVID at the same time, contact us or visit us today for diagnosis as well as treatment. At MI Express Urgent Care in Canton, MI, our experienced healthcare providers will devise a suitable treatment plan for both diseases according to your condition and symptoms.
