Clinical Portal 2026 Dr. Murali Gopal
Parent guide

Infectious Mononucleosis

Gland fever usually improves with time, but fatigue and spleen safety matter.

Parent Guide Published

Dr. Murali Gopal

Senior Paediatrician & Paediatric Pulmonologist
MCR: 57489
MBBS, DCH(UK), MRCPCH(UK), FRCPCH(UK), CCT Paediatrics (UK), Fellow in Paediatric Pulmonology (Aus), Allergology (Ind)

Parent education only. Most children do well when problems are recognised early and care is sought at the right time. This guide explains what parents can observe safely at home and when to seek medical help.

What is infectious mononucleosis?

Infectious mononucleosis, often called glandular fever, is commonly caused by Epstein-Barr virus. It may cause sore throat, fever, swollen glands and prolonged tiredness. Most children recover with supportive care, but complications need recognition.

Common symptoms and signs

  • Fever, sore throat and swollen neck glands.
  • Marked tiredness that may last for weeks.
  • Enlarged tonsils, bad breath or difficulty swallowing.
  • Abdominal fullness or discomfort if liver or spleen are enlarged.

How it spreads or happens

  • Spread through saliva and close contact.
  • Epstein-Barr virus is common; many children are exposed at some point.
  • Symptoms are more prominent in older children and adolescents.

Home care while arranging appropriate review

Focus on observation, fluids, comfort and timely review. Avoid self-starting antibiotics, leftover medicines, or unverified treatment plans.
  • Encourage rest, fluids and soft foods during sore throat.
  • Avoid sharing cups, bottles and utensils while unwell.
  • Avoid contact sports or rough play until a doctor confirms it is safe, especially if spleen enlargement is suspected.
  • Do not use leftover antibiotics for sore throat.

Red flags / when to seek urgent medical care

Seek urgent medical assessment if your child has any of the following:
  • Breathing difficulty, drooling, inability to swallow fluids or severe dehydration.
  • Severe left upper abdominal pain, shoulder-tip pain or fainting after activity or trauma.
  • Jaundice, persistent high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness or confusion.
  • Symptoms not improving as expected or concern for another diagnosis.

Important facts for parents

  • Antibiotics are not useful for uncomplicated viral glandular fever.
  • Fatigue can take time; gradual return to school and activity is often needed.
  • Spleen injury is rare but important; sports clearance should be medical.

Medical disclaimer

General education only This guide provides general educational information for parents and caregivers. It does not replace medical consultation, diagnosis, examination, or individualized treatment by a qualified healthcare professional. If a child is unwell, worsening, or if there is any concern, seek medical advice promptly. Medicines, vaccines, tests and follow-up plans should be decided by a qualified clinician after examining the child.

References

  1. Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne. Kids Health Info. https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/
  2. American Academy of Pediatrics. HealthyChildren.org. https://www.healthychildren.org/
  3. World Health Organization disease fact sheets and public-health guidance. https://www.who.int/

Last reviewed: 16 June 2026.

© Dr. Murali Gopal | For Patient Education Only This educational material is intended for parent and patient education. Reproduction, redistribution, or modification without permission is not allowed.

Medical review

Reviewed byDr. Murali Gopal

Last reviewed16 June 2026

Medical review statusClinician reviewed

ReferencesRoyal Children's Hospital Melbourne. Kids Health Info. https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/; American Academy of Pediatrics. HealthyChildren.org. https://www.healthychildren.org/; World Health Organization disease fact sheets and public-health guidance. https://www.who.int/

QR code to open the latest online version of Infectious Mononucleosis

Scan to open the latest online version

https://www.drmuraligopal.com/html-conditions/infectious-mononucleosis.html

This parent guide is for general education only and does not replace consultation with your child’s paediatrician. Please seek medical care urgently if your child appears seriously unwell, has breathing difficulty, poor feeding, dehydration, altered responsiveness, or if you are worried.