Epstein Bar syndrome

[nogutsnoglory]

I am inmunocompromised and started dating someone who was just diagnosed with Epstein Barr the disease that can become mono. Is there any way to protect myself or if I have it since I'm a kid can I be immune?

 

[Crohn's Mom]

Hi
Are you saying that you had Mono when you were a child already? If so then you should be ok; however, with EBV or any virus, it can be reactivated at any time. Once we get a virus, it never truly goes away, it just usually lies dormant in our bodies. It could be easier for an immunocompromised person for it to reactivate, I'm not sure.
Now, in saying that...Mono is passed from bodily fluids. This is why it is nicknamed "the kissing disease" So I would be careful in that aspect, as well as drinking from the same container, eating from the same utensil, etc.
The same applies if you have never had Mono, except you should be extra careful until your friend is in the clear (usually around 3 months).
Hope this helps and good luck to you!

Edit: I should add...having EBV is not the same as having Mono, EBV is one of the viruses that can cause Mono, but it can also cause symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, which in itself is not contagious.
Hope I haven't confused you! :lol:

 

[StarGirrrrl]

Yes they used to say you could only have mono once but recent thinking is that you can have it multiple times.

 

[nogutsnoglory]

I never had mono or EB so I'm thinking of not dating this person. It seems to risky to kiss and be in close proximity to someone who can make me sick. I have too much fatigue as it is and Epstein Barr can causes other problems. Maybe I should check for it in a test and if I already have it it makes no difference.

How long does it take to catch it for it to show up in a blood test?

 

[Crohn's Mom]

I'm not sure how long it takes exactly to show up in a blood test, as most people never get tested unless they are symptomatic.
However, it is easily tested for with a simple blood draw. It couldn't hurt to ask your doctor for this. Most people, even if they've never contracted MONO, are already carriers and never develop symptoms, EBV is a very common virus.
Again tho, if you are concerned and want to date the person, than maybe have your bloods drawn before you decide to not date The results usually take around 1 week.

 

[ThanksP]

EBV in immune compromised individuals can also lead to certain types of cancer. I would not risk it.