Adolescent Health

What is glandular fever?

Glandular fever is a viral infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. This virus can be passed from person to person by close contact. It is predominantly spread by saliva and can be caught by very close contact ie kissing as well as sharing cups, drink containers, toothbrushes, etc. It can take up to six weeks for the symptoms to develop after a person has first been infected with this virus. This is called the incubation period.

To prevent spread, you should avoid kissing and close body contact with other people whilst you are ill. It is also best not to share cups, towels, etc, whilst you are ill. There is no need to miss any school if you have glandular fever, unless you feel unwell. You should see your doctor if any unusual, severe or unexplained symptoms develop.

What are the common symptoms of glandular fever?

One or more of the following symptoms commonly occur for about a week or so. Symptoms then usually gradually settle over another week.

• Sore throat. Your throat is usually very sore, red and swollen. Glandular fever is typically suspected when a tonsillitis is severe and lasts longer than usual. Swallowing is often painful and saliva may pool in your mouth.
• Swollen glands. As your body's immune system fights off the virus it causes the lymph glands to swell. Any lymph gland in the body can be affected. However, the glands in the neck are usually the most prominent. They can become quite large and tender.
• Flu-like symptoms. Like other viral infections, glandular fever often causes a high temperature (fever), muscle aches and headaches. You can feel quite unwell.
• Tiredness. A feeling of intense tiredness often develops with glandular fever. This is often the last symptom to go.
• Swelling around eyes. About 1 in 5 people with glandular fever become puffy and swollen around the eyes. This goes in a short time.
• Pain in the abdomen. an organ under the ribs called the spleen is also part of the immune system and can swell and cause mild pain in the upper left side of the abdomen.
• No symptoms. Many people become infected with this virus but do not develop symptoms. This is called a subclinical infection. This is more common in children and in those aged over 40 years.

Who gets glandular fever?

Glandular fever can affect people of any age but is most common in young adults and teenagers. The immune system makes antibodies during the infection. This then usually provides lifelong immunity. This means that it is rare to have more than one episode of glandular fever.

How is glandular fever diagnosed?

The symptoms caused by glandular fever are similar to symptoms due to various other viruses. Therefore, it can be difficult to diagnose glandular fever just by a doctor examining you. So, a blood test is commonly done that can detect a particular antibody and confirm if you have glandular fever. If your blood test is inconclusive you may need to repeat it a few weeks later.