Infectious mononucleosis, more commonly known as mono, is typically transmitted through saliva. As such, it is also known as the “kissing disease”. The most common cause of mono is Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), but keep in mind that only 25% of individuals with EBV will develop mono. The group with the highest risk of developing mono is teenagers and young adults. In this article, you can find out everything you need to know about mono testing.
Diagnosing Mono
Although it’s possible to receive a diagnosis for mono without testing, you may wish to undergo testing for your peace of mind. This is particularly because strep throat can come with many of the same symptoms, but while it requires a course of antibiotics for effective treatment, this can end up causing a rash in mono patients.
Below are some symptoms of mono to watch out for:
Sore throat
Fever
Swollen lymph nodes in the armpits or neck
Headaches
Body aches
Rash
Red, swollen tonsils, possibly with yellow or white spots resembling pus
… and more!
Taking a Mono Test
When in doubt, you may wish to take a mono test to confirm the diagnosis. A blood sample will need to be obtained for mono testing and you can administer the test yourself with an at-home kit or go to your healthcare provider. Below is how the process will go:
Clean your finger with an alcohol wipe.
Draw blood by pricking your finger with the provided needle.
Collect a blood sample on the test strip provided.
Interpret the results based on the instructions given in the kit.
The same process will apply if you choose to undergo testing in a doctor’s office. The entire process is relatively quick and painless, although you may experience a slight pain when the sample is being drawn. Results are typically available within 5 to 10 minutes.
Interpreting the Results of a Mono Test
Your blood sample will be tested for the presence of heterophile antibodies, giving you a positive or negative result. Combined with the presence of mono symptoms, a positive result is very unlikely to be false. However, there is a small chance of obtaining a false negative result with a mono test. When you suspect that is the case, always consult a medical professional.
Get the At-Home Mono Test Kits You Need from Linear DX
Do you suspect you or your child have mono? If so, come to Linear DX to purchase the mono test kits you need. At-home testing is convenient and can spare you a trip to the doctor’s office, which you may not wish to make because of the chance of catching an infection. We offer timely shipping when you place an order with us: within 2 days nationwide and same-day local delivery in California. Alternatively, we are able to deploy an experienced team to conduct mass testing services for your workplace or school if necessary. For more information or to discuss a wholesale price for bulk purchases, please contact us today.
