Treatment and management of infectious mononucleosis is directed mostly toward supportive care. In most cases, no specific care is necessary. The management of sore throat, fever, and general malaise can be relieved with taking acetaminophen or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. Symptoms can also be relieved by drinking plenty of fluids and getting sufficient sleep and rest. There is little evidence to support the use of antiviral medications. Antivirals like acyclovir have little benefit and may even prolong the course of the illness. Practitioners should also avoid prescribing either ampicillin or amoxicillin because of known rubella-like rash reactions. Aspirin given to children is linked to Reye’s Syndrome, which can cause liver failure, and should be avoided as well (Ben-Joseph, 2013). One complication associated with infectious mononucleosis is an obstructed airway secondary to lymph node enlargement, in which corticosteroid medications may be prescribed (Krafczk & Vikram, 2012; King, 2009).
There is no vaccine for Epstein-Barr virus. Individuals with infections mononucleosis can remain infectious for up to 18 months. During this time one should maintain good hygiene practices. Since the virus is typically transmitted via saliva, patients should refrain from intimate contact and sharing food and drinks until symptoms have resolved. A crucial element of managing the virus is patient education. In addition to treating symptoms like fatigue, sore throat, and fever, prevention of complications and shedding of Epstein-Barr virus is essential (King, 2009; Krafczk & Vikram, 2012).