Can you get mono a second time?
Most people who have mono (infectious mononucleosis) will have it only once. But rarely, mononucleosis symptoms may recur months or even years later. Most cases of mononucleosis are caused by infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).
What are the chances of getting mono a second time?
However, at least 25% of young people who get infected with EBV will develop symptoms of mono, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). But there’s some good news — if you get mono, it’s almost impossible to get it again.
Why does my mono keep coming back?
Mononucleosis Recurrence Mono can recur because the body does not get rid of the virus even after the symptoms of the infection disappear. 3 Once a person becomes infected with mono, EBV stays in their body for life by remaining in tissues and immune cells. While the body still carries the virus, it is dormant.
Can you have a flare up of mono?
Mono flare-up In rare cases, the symptoms can flare up months or even years later. EBV, which usually is what causes a mono infection, remains in your body for the rest of your life. It’s usually in a dormant state, but the virus can be reactivated.
Is mono worse the second time?
However, it is possible to experience mono twice. People with compromised immune systems may be more at risk of experiencing mono twice if the virus reactivates within the body. In other cases, a person may feel the symptoms go away and then worsen.
Can mono come back with stress?
Can mono come back with stress? Chronic stress can weaken your immune system, so it’s possible that this could be one trigger leading to a bout of recurrent mono.
How long does mono last in older adults?
For some people, their liver or spleen or both may remain enlarged even after their fatigue ends. Most people get better in two to four weeks; however, some people may feel fatigued for several more weeks. Occasionally, the symptoms of infectious mononucleosis can last for six months or longer.
How long does mono last the second time?
Teens and young adults They also tend to have the most severe symptoms. Symptoms often last 2–4 weeks, but they can persist for longer. Fever, sore throat, and other common symptoms may last for several days and then gradually get better.