Infectious mononucleosis (mono) typically lasts about 1 to 2 months, with most symptoms gradually improving within 2 to 4 weeks. However, fatigue and weakness can linger for several weeks to months after other symptoms have resolved
. Mono progresses through three stages:
- Prodrome stage: lasts about 3 to 5 days, when early symptoms like fatigue and sore throat begin.
- Acute stage: symptoms worsen and are most severe, usually lasting 2 to 4 weeks.
- Convalescent stage: recovery phase that can take 3 to 6 months, during which fatigue may persist
While the acute symptoms subside in weeks, some people experience prolonged tiredness even after feeling better. The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which causes most cases of mono, remains dormant in the body for life but is usually inactive after recovery
. In summary, mono symptoms generally last from 2 to 4 weeks, but full recovery, especially from fatigue, can take several months
