The mono blog

Epstein Barr – the virus that causes mononucleosis or glandular fever, is most common in people aged 15-35 years old. It affects about 45 people in every 100,000 at any one time. It is estimated that 80 – 95% of all Americans have had mononucleosis by age 40.

Mononucleosis has been nicknamed the “kissing disease” as it is transmitted through saliva and is common in teenagers. I see many students in my clinic who are in their final years at school coming down with this virus. Often the stress of exams plus their busy social lives make them prime candidates for picking it up. In severe cases I advise these students to defer their exams or get a medical letter of explanation for the examiners.

In children the disease seems a little less severe than in teenagers. Some children may develop the “Alice In Wonderland” syndrome where sizes, shapes and distances appear distorted during infection. In underdeveloped countries, children are exposed to the virus early in life and may not develop noticeable symptoms.

In western countries, better hygiene practices can delay the exposure of the virus and delay infections to teenagers or adults, when symptoms are more likely to develop. Adults over thirty seem to suffer the most severe and long lasting symptoms. They may take 6 months or more to recover.

If you have Epstein Barr it is essential that your rest your body and treat your body naturally with a healthy diet, vital nutrients, healing herbs and stress management. These natural treatments for Epstein Barr are discussed in detail in the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by naturopath Elizabeth Noble.