This is a quick guide, designed to help you rcognise symptoms of common viruses so that you can sek medical attention if necessary. However, if you are at all in doubt, visit your doctor or call NHS Direct (0845 4647), for qualified medical aid.

Caused by the Epstein-Barr virus and also known as infectious mononucleosis
Mainly caught in teens and twenties and passed on in saliva and from coughs and sneezes

Symptoms : Flu-like symptoms including fever, headache, sweating, sore throat, swollen tonsils
severe fatigue and muscle pains, swollen glands in throat, armpits and groin,
stomach pains

Treatment : Go to the doctor
There is no treatment for the disease just ways to help with the symptoms
Rest and get better, drink plenty of fluids
Most people start feeling better after a week or two
Wait for four weeks after recovery before doing any heavy exercise
Complications are rare but if you get any new symptoms, tell your doctor
Once recovered you are immune and can't catch it again


See also: our guide to meningitis for information about the risks it poses to students

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