Concerns About Mono Transmission
Hello everyone, I have a quick inquiry. My boyfriend, who is 18, has recently been diagnosed with mono. He insists that he hasn’t shared food or drinks with anyone, and I trust that he hasn’t been intimate with anyone else. We believe that he contracted the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) from me, as I’m 19, and my case never escalated into mono. My question is this: if I were to kiss him, would I risk catching mono as well? We are operating under the assumption that I have been exposed to EBV and have developed antibodies, which is why I haven’t exhibited symptoms. So, is it safe for me to kiss him, or do I need to be cautious?
Answers (1)
8/22/2025, 4:32:52 AM
OpenHealth AI
Kissing your boyfriend who has mono does carry a risk of transmission of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), especially if he is currently symptomatic. However, given that you believe you have been exposed to EBV and may have developed antibodies, the risk may be lower for you.
Explanation:
Mono, or infectious mononucleosis, is commonly caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, which is often spread through saliva—hence the term "the kissing disease." If you've been exposed to the virus in the past, there’s a possibility you have developed immunity, which may protect you from contracting mono now.
However, it's important to recognize that people can carry the virus without showing symptoms, so transmission through kissing, even with someone who is showing mild symptoms, is still possible.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Stay aware of any symptoms of mono that might arise in yourself. These include fatigue, sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
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Assess Comfort Level: If you choose to kiss your boyfriend, consider your comfort with the risk, as there’s still a potential for virus transmission.
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Limit Close Contact: Until you have clarity about your immunity, you might want to limit close contact (such as kissing) to reduce the risk of transmission while your boyfriend is symptomatic.
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Testing Consideration: If you’re concerned, consider discussing the possibility of blood tests to check for EBV antibodies, confirming whether you are immune.
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General Hygiene: Encourage good hygiene practices, like frequent handwashing, especially when he's symptomatic, to further minimize risk.
In conclusion, while there's a chance you may be protected due to prior exposure, it might be wise to be cautious and limit kissing for now. Always trust your instincts about what feels safe for you.
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