Infectious mononucleosis is a viral disease caused by a virus called Epstein-Barr (EBV) which belongs to the family of herpes groups. The first contact, or primary infection, often goes unnoticed in children. But in some cases, the virus is responsible for mononucleosis, most often in adolescents or young adults. This disease is often called kissing disease. But more broadly, it spreads through direct contact between people. Obviously by kissing, but more widely by saliva.
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The virus present in saliva for up to six months
If an individual coughs, twists, sneezes, he can transmit the disease. Contagion is greatest during the acute phase, especially when the patient has a fever. Once it has disappeared, the virus remains in the saliva, in small quantities, for a fairly long period which can go up to six months. Transmission therefore remains possible but underestimated.
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Once infected and then cured of the disease, the individual is immune. It keeps the stigmata, especially in the lymph nodes which do not generally cause mononucleosis. It is estimated that 90% of adults have already been in contact with the virus, without declaring mononucleosis disease.