What Are the Stages of Mono? How Long Do They Last?

There are three stages of mono (mononucleosis):

• Prodrome stage, when symptoms start
• Acute stage, when you feel the worst
• Convalescent stage, when you begin to recover

These begin after a period of incubation, in which mono is in your system, but there are no obvious signs of it yet.

Some people may have symptoms for only two to six weeks. Others may have lingering effects—especially fatigue—until the virus that causes the illness becomes inactive, which can take months.

This article walks you through the stages of mono so you can get a better sense of what to expect and how to get over mono faster. It also looks at possible complications and ways to prevent getting mono and passing the virus to others.

Mono Incubation Period

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is the most common cause of mono. It can take around four to six weeks for symptoms of mononucleosis to appear after you have been infected.

The period of time between exposure and the start of symptoms is called the incubation period.

Though may feel OK during this time, it's still possible for you to pass the virus on to others.

Mono Stage 1: Prodrome

The first stage of mono is called the prodrome stage. It ususally lasts three to five days.

Mono symptoms start to appear during this phase. These can include:

• Fatigue or low energy
• Feeling "off" or uncomfortable
• Not feeling hungry
• Sore throat

You can also have mono without symptoms. In particular, kids under the age of 10 may have very mild symptoms or none at all.

Mono Stage 2: Acute Phase

The second phase of mono is called the acute stage. During this time, a person's symptoms may start to get worse. Acute symptoms are often referred to as "classic" symptoms.

By and large, the acute symptoms of mono last for two to six weeks but may persist longer in some people.

Not everyone will experience every symptom of mono. Keep in mind that mono symptoms can also show up at different times over the course of the infection.

Mono Stage 3: Convalescent Phase

The last phase of mono is the convalescent stage. This is when you recover from the infection, which can take anywhere from three to six months.

By this stage, most mono symptoms have gotten better. However, some people still feel weak and tired.

If you have an inflamed or enlarged spleen during the convalescent stage, you will need to avoid any physical activity that could lead to spleen rupture.

Mono Treatment

There's no cure or specific treatment for mono. It can take a long time to get over the infection, and there's not much you can do to make the process go faster.

Supporting your body as it heals and fights off the virus is the best approach.

You can do this by:

• Resting and getting plenty of fluids
• Using over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription medications for pain and fever (Ask your provider before you use acetaminophen, as this medication can increase the risk of liver damage.)
• Taking medications for inflammation, if needed

Providers may prescribe a corticosteroid if you have a severe case of mono.

Do I Need to Isolate If I Have Mono?

Mono can be passed to others, but you don't necessarily need to isolate when you are infected—if you follow certain precautions.

The mono virus is mostly spread through your spit (saliva). Mono can also spread if you cough or sneeze close to somebody.

When you are around others:

• Avoid sharing eating and drinking utensils.
• Refrain from kissing.
• Do not share personal items, like lip balms.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes using the inside of your elbow.
• Wash your hands frequently.
  

Complications of Mono

People with severe mono can experience liver and spleen damage. There are also some other potentially serious complications of mono, such as:

• Jaundice (when a substance called bilirubin builds up and causes the skin and whites of the eyes to look yellow)
• Liver failure
• Peritonsillar abscess (an infection in the throat)
• Encephalitis (inflammation in the brain)
• Pleural effusion (fluid build-up in the lungs)

The effects of these complications may persist even after you've recovered from mono itself.

Studies have shown that the Epstein-Barr virus might be linked to certain types of cancer, including Burkitt’s lymphoma and Hodgkin lymphoma.

Mono has also been associated with an increased risk of developing autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis.

Rarely, people with mono can develop a chronic active Epstein-Barr virus (CAEBV) infection. This can occur in people with a first-time infection or in people who have already recovered from the illness if the virus reactivates within the body.

Summary

Mono is a contagious illness that is usually caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. Mono has three stages: prodrome (when symptoms start), acute stage (when symptoms worsen), and convalescent (recovery).

Mono has a long incubation period, so it can be difficult to pinpoint when the illness actually started. On average, the prodrome phase lasts three to five days, the acute phase can last up to six weeks, and the final recovery stage can go on for up to six months.