Glandular fever is a viral infection usually caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It is commonly spread from person to person through contact with saliva. The main ways you can get glandular fever include:
- Kissing someone who has the virus (hence it is sometimes called the "kissing disease").
- Sharing utensils, cups, or drinking containers with an infected person.
- Being exposed to coughs and sneezes from someone infected, which spreads the virus in airborne droplets.
- Contact with saliva on hands or objects, especially for young children.
The person with glandular fever can spread the virus while they are sick and sometimes for months after the initial infection. Basic hygiene like washing hands and avoiding sharing items that come into contact with saliva can help prevent spreading the infection.
