Everything you need to know about mono and mono testing
Medically reviewed by Dr. Betsy Koickel, MD on November 3rd 2025.
Infectious Mononucleosis (frequently referred to as “Mono”) is an infection caused by the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), which is one of the most common viruses in the world. In fact, 95% of the world’s population has been infected with EBV at some point in their lives.
What are the symptoms of Mono?
The symptoms of Mono include a sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, headache, loss of appetite, fever, fatigue, a rash and occasionally, a swollen spleen or liver. These symptoms are similar to those of the mild flu, but the fatigue can last several months.
How does Mono spread?
Mono is often called “the kissing disease” because it’s transmitted through saliva. It can also spread through sharing drinks, utensils, toothbrushes or exposure to respiratory droplets, not only kissing. It’s most common in adolescents and young adults, and in settings where young people live in close quarters, such as college dorms and military barracks.
How do you test for Mono?
There are two ways to test for Mono; one is significantly more accurate than the other. Speak to your healthcare provider about which is best for you.
Mono spot test (Paul-Bunnel Test)
The first is with a rapid Mono test, called the Monospot test, which is a fingerstick test that runs in less than 10 minutes.
However, the rapid Mono testing does have some limitations. Accuracy rates can vary from 71-90%, and it misses up to 25% of cases of Mono if the test is run too early or too late in the course. False negatives are most common within the first week of symptoms or in younger children, whose immune systems may not yet produce detectable antibodies.
For this reason, a negative Monospot test does not completely rule out Mono, especially if symptoms strongly suggest infection.
Blood tests (Antibody test)
The second, and more accurate, way of testing for Mono is to draw blood and send it out to the lab for EBV titers. This test measures the levels of several different kinds of EBV antibodies to determine if a patient has ever been exposed to EBV in the past, as well as if they have an active or chronic EBV infection.
Mono is typically an infection you can only get once in your life, so it’s important to let your healthcare provider know if you have tested positive for Mono in the past.
What are the treatment options for Mono?
While there is no cure for EBV, Mono treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms and supporting the body’s natural recovery process. Most cases improve within a few weeks, although fatigue can last for several months. If you do have Mono, here are a few things you can do to support your recovery.
Rest and hydration
Adequate rest is essential to help the immune system fight the infection. Staying well-hydrated supports recovery and helps relieve common symptoms like sore throat and fever. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fluids, fruits and vegetables can also help support immune health.
Pain and fever relief
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever, sore throat and body aches.
Corticosteroids for severe cases
In rare cases with significant throat swelling, difficulty breathing or severe inflammation of the liver or spleen, healthcare providers may prescribe corticosteroids such as prednisone. These medications are used short-term to decrease inflammation and prevent serious complications.
How long does Mono last?
Most Mono infections resolve on their own within a matter of weeks, particularly with rest and hydration. Though in rare cases, the symptoms like fatigue can last up to six months.
Also, patients with an enlarged spleen are advised to avoid contact sports during a Mono infection, since a swollen spleen is more likely to rupture if a patient experiences abdominal trauma.
When to visit urgent care for Mono
While you can generally recover from Mono on your own, a visit to urgent care can help confirm the diagnosis and provide suggestions for feeling better.
You should visit urgent care if Mono symptoms become severe or unusual. Warning signs include difficulty breathing or swallowing, severe abdominal pain, high fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes, extreme fatigue lasting more than a few weeks or signs of dehydration.
To get started with your urgent care visit, find a center near you and walk in or save your spot online.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Mononucleosis and treatment for Mono.
What is the Mono virus and how does it spread?
Mononucleosis (Mono) is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which spreads mainly through saliva when kissing, sharing drinks, utensils or through close contact.
What are the four stages of Mono?
Mono typically progresses through four stages: incubation (4–6 weeks with no symptoms), prodrome (early fatigue and mild symptoms), acute phase (fever, sore throat, swollen glands) and recovery (gradual return of energy over several weeks).
What does a Mono test detect?
Mono tests detect antibodies that the immune system produces in response to infection.
What can test positive for Mono?
A Monospot or EBV antibody test may test positive if you have an active or recent infection. Some people remain positive for certain antibodies long after recovery.
How do people get Mono?
People get Mono through direct contact with infected saliva, by kissing, sharing food, drinks, toothbrushes or being exposed to droplets from coughs or sneezes.
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