How to Avoid Mononucleosis

By eHow Health Editor

Rate: (7 Ratings)

Mononucleosis is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, and is quite contagious. While the exact mode of transmission remains unknown, it is believed that mono is spread through close contact with an infected person - by saliva, sexual contact, kissing and respiratory droplets (coughing and sneezing).

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

  • Antibacterial Soaps
  • Facial Tissues
  • Multivitamins

Step1
Avoid kissing someone on the mouth if they are infected with mono.
Step2
Keep the infected person's eating and drinking utensils separate from the rest of the family.
Step3
Avoid eating with an infected person's fork or spoon, or drinking from the same cup.
Step4
Turn your head if an infected person coughs or sneezes. Make sure there is an adequate supply of tissues to sneeze into.
Step5
Avoid having sexual contact with someone who is infected.
Step6
Wash your hands after you have been handling an infected person's things, especially if you've touched their saliva.
Step7
Stay healthy and keep your own immune system strong. Your immune system is your primary defense against viruses. Eat healthy, nutritious food, get sufficient sleep and exercise regularly.
Step8
Add a high-potency multivitamin to your diet.
Step9
Take time for leisure activity. This will help reduce stress and strenghten your immune system.

Tips & Warnings

  • It is often difficult to avoid contact with the Epstein-Barr virus because people are often contagious before they have any symptoms. The best thing is to keep yourself as healthy as possible and prevent getting rundown.
  • If you have any questions or concerns, contact a physician or other health care professional before engaging in any activity related to health and diet. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

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Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 1/15/2008 If you want to avoid mononucleosis, when someone coughs or sneezes around you make sure, absolutely sure, that you spray Lysol, or immediately use some form of disinfectant. Never kiss anyone, mononucleosis is mainly spread through saliva. Mononucleosis is actually referred to as "The kissing disease." If you pick someone as a boyfriend or girlfriend that's not a selfish cheater, it will help slim down your chances of getting mononucleosis. If you get (or currently have) mononucleosis, I can give you some pointers. You are going to have to take some time off from work or school. You will need to rest for at least a few weeks. The main staple of advice I have is to drink plenty of fluids - PowerAde, Gatorade, orange juice, or water. Your body needs all the help it can get for fighting this. You need to be pampered during this time, mononucleosis sucks hard core. You will feel weak and exhausted. Rest and drink lots and lots of fluids! Your immune system can kick butt better when it is hydrated and it will help with the whole fever thing, too!

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eHow Article:  How to Avoid Mononucleosis

eHow Health Editor

eHow Health Editor

Category: Health

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