Mononucleosis (mono) is most commonly caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and is often called the "kissing disease" because it spreads primarily through saliva

How You Can Get Mono:

• Kissing someone who has mono, as the virus is present in saliva

• Sharing drinks, eating utensils, straws, toothbrushes, or lip products with an infected person

• Less commonly, it can spread through coughing or sneezing near you if droplets contain the virus

• Rarely, mono can be transmitted through blood transfusions, organ transplants, or sexual contact because the virus can be present in blood and semen

Important Notes:

• People infected with EBV can spread the virus even before symptoms appear and for months afterward, sometimes even when they feel well

• Most people are exposed to EBV by adulthood and develop immunity, so they usually do not get mono more than once

• Mono is contagious for a long period, up to 18 months after initial symptoms, which makes avoiding exposure difficult

In summary, you get mono by coming into contact with saliva or bodily fluids from an infected person, commonly through kissing or sharing items that have saliva on them