Glandular fever – how long are you infectious?
Other Qs & As
How long is a person infectious from when the symptoms of glandular fever first appear?
Glandular fever is a very common viral infection usually affecting adolescents and young adults.
Its other name is infectious mononucleosis and the virus is called the Epstein-Barr virus. The virus is commonly transmitted in the saliva.
The condition resolves quickly and in most patients causes little or no symptoms, therefore frequently not being diagnosed.
A few unfortunate patients may suffer fatigue and debility for several months. It is found that by the age of 25, most people have evidence of previous infection when tested.
In one research study 90 percent of healthy adults between 21 and 57 years were found to have virus in their saliva.
The answer to your question, 'how long is a person infectious from the onset of symptoms', therefore is probably forever.
The degree of infectiousness will vary and is highest while the symptoms of the condition are most severe.
However, most adults and many children will already have developed protecting antibodies.
The NetDoctor Medical Team