happy + healthy
The
KISSING
Disease
Mononucleosis or “Mono” for short is known as
“the kissing disease,” but it’s not only spread
through kissing. Mono is a virus that presents
flu-like symptoms. It’s usually caused by the
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Symptoms of Mono
often resemble the flu.
Symptoms of Mono
SHE SUCCESSFULLY
PLAYED THE SAME
PRANK ON HER
MOTHER THREE TIMES
IN A SINGLE DAY AND
REMAINS CONFIDENT
SHE COULD DO IT AGAIN.
and at
Children’s of Alabama we want to see every child
grow up and live to their fullest potential. That’s why
we recruit, train and retain the most inquiring minds,
the most skilled hands and the most compassionate
hearts in pediatric medicine.
C H I L D R E N A M A Z E U S E V E R Y D AY
1600 7TH AVENUE SOUTH BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233
(205) 638-9100 ChildrensAL.org
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Sore Throat
• Swollen Lymph Nodes
• Loss of Appetite
• Body Aches
Mono can also cause an enlarged liver or spleen, which is often
a sign of the infection.
Dr. Youngblood, a Children’s of Alabama Pediatrician,
explains, “The Epstein-Barr Virus can cause enlargement of
the spleen and that can create problems as kids are recovering
for return to sports.” She says when a patient is diagnosed with
Mono, it’s crucial they get a lot of rest and avoid strenuous activity until their physician tells them it’s OK to return to activity.
“Even with activities as simple as wrestling with their sibling,”
Dr. Youngblood says, “you need to check with your doctor
before resuming any contact.”
Mono usually lasts 7-10 days, but recovery can take as long as
several weeks or even months. The child’s pediatrician should
determine when it’s safe to resume activity.
Mono is transmitted through saliva. It can be spread through
kissing, exposure to coughing or sneezing, or sharing drinks or
utensils. Proper hygiene can help prevent Mono.
Prevention of Mono
• Hand washing
• Avoid sharing drinks, utensils
• Encourage children to cover mouth, sneeze in arm
In most cases, children who get Mono recover completely with
plenty of rest and fluids. But in rare cases, complications can
occur. If your child’s symptoms linger, talk with their doctor.
12 |
Winter 2016
PotentialMagazine_COA_HeadlineAd_Prank.indd 1
www.potentialmagazine. com
2/10/15 4:20 PM