What is Glandular Fever?
Glandular fever is a viral infection mostly caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Most EBV infections take place during childhood and cause mild symptoms, but developing it during early adulthood can lead to glandular fever.
Glandular fever is spread through saliva, and can spread through kissing, coughs and sneezes, and sharing utensils.
Someone with glandular fever is contagious for at least two months after being initially infected, but once you have had it it’s unlikely you will develop the infection again.
How common is Glandular Fever?
Glandular fever is uncommon- around 1 in every 200 people will develop in every year. Most cases affect young adult between the ages of 15 and 24.
What are the symptoms of Glandular Fever?
The most common symptoms are a high temperature, a sore throat, swollen glands, swollen tonsils, swollen adenoids and purple spots on the roof of your mouth.
Symptoms will usually resolve within two to three weeks of the initial infection, and the fever will usually last for up to two weeks. Fatigue can last for up to six months.
How is Glandular Fever treated?
There is no cure for glandular fever. Controlling your symptoms includes plenty of rest, fluids, painkillers, salt water for the throat pain, and antibiotics if a secondary infection develops.
If you have not received treatment or advice, or suffered any symptoms in the past five years choose a moratorium product.