Is it possible to catch mononucleosis twice during life?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the possibility of contracting mononucleosis more than once in a lifetime, specifically focusing on the behavior of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), its reactivation, and transmission risks. Participants share personal experiences and seek clarification on medical aspects related to the virus.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Personal experience

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether the EBV can reactivate after initial infection, drawing a parallel to herpes viruses.
  • Another participant suggests that once infected, the body develops antibodies, making reinfection unlikely, but acknowledges uncertainty about transmission.
  • Contrary to the previous claim, some participants assert from personal experience that it is possible to have mononucleosis multiple times.
  • One participant mentions having had mononucleosis twice and challenges the common belief that it can only occur once, citing misinformation on the topic.
  • Another participant confirms having experienced the illness several times over two decades, supporting the notion that reinfection is possible.
  • A participant expresses concern about the potential to infect others, despite their partner not contracting the virus during their illness.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the possibility of contracting mononucleosis more than once, with some asserting it is possible based on personal experiences, while others believe that immunity develops after the first infection. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the definitive nature of reinfection and transmission risks.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding medical advice, as participants share personal anecdotes rather than established medical consensus. The uncertainty surrounding the virus's behavior and transmission is evident, with no clear resolution on the medical aspects discussed.

fluidistic
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Hi,
I've been suffering of mononucleosis in late 2006. I've read that the virus never leave out the body for all the life of the infected person. I wonder if it is possible that the virus becomes active once again (like the herpes virus since they are closely related) and also if it is possible to me to contract it from drinking a glass of a person suffering from it.
Last question : can I transmit it to people not yet infected?
Thanks.
 
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Talk to your doctor. You may be able to shed the Epstein-Barr virus for over a year after infection, but I don't know if you are likely to be able to infect others. Once you have had mono, I doubt that you can contract it again because your body has developed antibodies against the EBV. I am not a doctor, but had a very bad run-in with mono back in college (badly enlarged spleen, too), so you should check with your family doctor for REAL medical advice.
 
I can tell you from personal experience that it is possible to have it twice. I had it late in '01 and had it in June of '08. There is a common misconception that you cannot get it more than once. Do some searching around on the web and there is plenty of misinformation about only being able to contract it once. Each time I had it I was tested specifically for it. The last time at my request since the symptoms seemed a bit too familiar.
 
I have also had it several times over the past 2 decades. So the answer is yes, you can have it more then once.
 
Ok thank you for the information. I thought I was immunized to it. I don't have a personal doctor where I live but I could go to see a doctor anyway. I hope I can't infect other people. Incredibly I was living with my girlfriend when I got ill and kissed her many times. She didn't get mononucleosis.
 

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