How to prepare for a video visit about Mononucleosis (Suspected) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

Mononucleosis, often called "mono" or the "kissing disease," is a common infection in children and teens caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. It usually causes symptoms like fever, sore throat, swollen glands, and tiredness. If you think your child might have mono, a video visit with a healthcare provider can help you understand what to do next. During the visit, the provider will ask about symptoms and may suggest tests or care steps. Preparing well for the video visit can make it easier to share important information and get helpful advice. Remember, this guide is for education and triage only and does not replace in-person medical care when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe throat pain making it hard to swallow or drooling — get urgent medical attention.
• High fever (above 39°C or 102°F) that does not come down with medication — contact a healthcare provider promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom review and triage for suspected mononucleosis.
• Providing advice on home care, rest, and hydration.
• Guidance on when to seek in-person medical evaluation or emergency care.
• Answering questions about common symptoms and expected illness course.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations that require hands-on assessment.
• Conducting laboratory tests or throat swabs.
• Managing severe complications such as airway obstruction or dehydration.
• Providing prescriptions that require physical examination or urgent intervention.

What is Mononucleosis?

Mononucleosis is an infection usually caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. It spreads through saliva, which is why it is sometimes called the "kissing disease." Children and teenagers often get it, but anyone can be infected. Common symptoms include fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes (glands), and feeling very tired. Most cases get better with rest and time, but some may need medical care.

How a Video Visit Can Help

A video visit lets you talk with a healthcare provider from home. The provider can ask about your child's symptoms, look at visible signs like throat redness, and decide if further tests or care are needed. This is helpful for deciding if your child can be cared for at home or needs to see a doctor in person. Video visits are safe and convenient but have some limits.

What to Prepare Before the Video Visit

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What to Expect During the Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's health history and symptoms. They may ask you to show your child's throat or swollen glands on camera. They will explain possible next steps, which might include rest, fluids, pain relief, or visiting a clinic for tests. You can ask questions about care and when to seek emergency help.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child has trouble breathing, severe throat pain, difficulty swallowing, very high fever, or signs of dehydration, you should seek in-person medical care immediately. Also, if symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days, a physical exam and tests may be needed.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List your child's symptoms and when they began.
• Note any recent exposure to sick individuals.
• Gather information on current medications and allergies.
• Ensure your device is charged and connected to a stable internet.
• Prepare a quiet, well-lit space for the video visit.
• Have a family member help if your child is very young or uncooperative.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on rest, fluids, and symptom relief.
• Monitor your child's symptoms carefully over the next days.
• Schedule an in-person visit if symptoms worsen or do not improve.
• Keep emergency numbers handy in case red-flag symptoms develop.
• Maintain good hygiene to prevent spreading the infection to others.

FAQs

What causes mononucleosis in children?

Mononucleosis is usually caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, which spreads through saliva. Children can catch it from close contact like sharing drinks or utensils.

How long does mononucleosis last?

Symptoms often last 2 to 4 weeks, but tiredness can continue for several more weeks. Most children recover fully with rest.

Can mononucleosis be treated with antibiotics?

No, antibiotics do not work against viruses like Epstein-Barr. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms such as fever and sore throat.

When should I take my child to the emergency room?

Seek emergency care if your child has trouble breathing, severe throat pain, difficulty swallowing, drooling, or a very high fever that won’t come down.

Is mononucleosis contagious?

Yes, it spreads through saliva. Avoid sharing drinks, utensils, or kissing while your child is sick to reduce spreading the virus.

Sources

1. Mononucleosis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Infectious Mononucleosis — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Mononucleosis (Mono) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Mononucleosis — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only. It is not a substitute for in-person medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. If your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned about their health, seek prompt medical care in person.