mononucleosis

Mononucleosis, often called "mono," is a viral infection primarily caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. It is commonly spread through saliva, which is why it's sometimes nicknamed the "kissing disease." Symptoms typically include extreme fatigue, sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and an enlarged spleen. While mono can make you feel very ill, it is generally not serious and often resolves on its own within a few weeks to months. Treatment focuses on rest, hydration, and pain relief. It's important to avoid contact sports during recovery due to the risk of spleen injury.