Treatment of Glandular fever

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In the mildest cases of infection with the Epstein-Barr virus there are few or no symptoms, so no need for treatment.

When symptoms do appear, treatments are aimed at soothing them, as there isnâ€™t a cure for glandular fever. The virus usually runs its course within a month, as your body produces antibodies against it, and many people will recover without treatment within a week or two.

When you are feeling unwell, tired, or have a high temperature, you should rest and take plenty of fluids such as water. Paracetamol or ibuprofen (or child equivalents) can be used to reduce pain and fever.

Antibiotics are not given because glandular fever is caused by a virus. Sometimes a secondary bacterial infection of the tonsils occurs, and this is usually treated with the antibiotic penicillin. Some other antibiotics such as amoxycillin are avoided because they can cause a rash in people with glandular fever.

Self-help measures for a sore throat include gargling with salt water or sucking on throat lozenges.

In rare cases when swelling in the throat is severe, and interferes with swallowing, or if the nervous system (brain and spine) is affected, treatment with corticosteroid tablets such as prednisolone may be used.

Research is ongoing into finding a vaccine against the Epstein-Barr virus.

After having glandular fever, you should ease yourself slowly back into your usual exercise regime. Avoid rough or vigorous exercise for 6-8 weeks, because if your spleen is swollen, it could get damaged.