Many researchers believe that reactivation of infectious mononucleosis by the SARS-CoV-2 virus may be responsible for long Covid. How can this viral disease – which is spread by saliva and causes fatigue, sore throat and fever – be treated naturally?
The viral infection infectious mononucleosis is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a member of the herpes virus family(1). As EBV is extremely widespread, the body is often exposed to it in childhood and adolescence but remains symptom-free, though infection triggers the production of protective antibodies.
But in the absence of such infection at a young age, the body has no immunity. Exposure to the virus later in life thus causes infectious mononucleosis, or ‘mono’, key symptoms of which include high fever, intense fatigue, loss of appetite, muscle pain, and headaches. Mono can also cause a particularly painful sore throat (2).
Transmitted by saliva and coughing, infectious mononucleosis is often referred to as the ‘kissing disease’ (3).
We know that many illnesses, including mononucleosis, frequently lead to post-infection syndromes (4-5). Since the pandemic, a number of scientists have therefore been looking at a potential link connecting interactions between Covid and various infections, and long Covid.
In a study published in the journal Pathogens in June 2021 (6), a group of researchers set out to test a hypothesis concerning long Covid. They theorised that the inflammatory response to infection with Covid-19 might provoke a reactivation of the Epstein-Barr virus, present in 90% of adults.
A reactivation such as this would explain the symptoms experienced by 1 in 3 patients after recovery from initial COVID-19 infection: fatigue, skin rashes, brain fog, etc.
Having indeed identified a relationship between SARS-CoV-2 and EBV reactivation, the study’s authors recommend the systematic testing of newly-positive Covid patients for evidence of EBC reactivation so that mononucleosis symptoms can be treated as early as possible and thus inhibit the development of long Covid and its impact on patients.
Since infectious mononucleosis is a viral infection, there are unfortunately no effective treatments (the few antivirals that do exist are not generally recommended) (7).
Paracetamol and anti-inflammatories are, however, often prescribed for symptom relief, especially fever and headaches. Rest and proper hydration are also recommended.
Whatever the circumstances, if you suspect you have contracted infectious mononucleosis, arrange to see your doctor for a blood test - the only way to obtain a confirmed diagnosis.
While no miracle cure exists for infectious mononucleosis, there are natural treatments that can help relieve certain symptoms and also support your immunity.
To combat the intense fatigue associated with mono, the ever-essential vitamin C is likely to prove invaluable, particularly in winter. For energy metabolism, the immune system, psychological function, reducing fatigue, etc.: vitamin C is your ‘go-to’ health ally. Doctors often recommend it to help their patients get back on their feet.
Similarly, vitamin D supports healthy immune system function, and supplementation is practically essential, especially in winter (8).
Supplementing with magnesium, which helps to reduce fatigue and supports normal nervous system and psychological function, has also proved invaluable in cases of overwhelming fatigue. Remember too that magnesium deficiency is particularly widespread.
Last but not least, Ayurvedic medicine has provided us a very useful adaptogen plant: ginseng. Helping to reduce fatigue, maintain vitality, and support both the immune system as well as cerebral performance and reactivity, the root of this medicinal plant offers solutions for multiple symptoms (9).
References
You must be connected to your account to leave a comment
Be the first to review this article
422 Days
I always get my order in a timely manner.
CLARK Jodi
426 Days
The order was exactly what I purchased and came in quickly. My package was completely opened on one end and taped with packing tape, but it was all there with safety seals around the neck still. I hope the bottles still contain what I ordered.
REAGAN
428 Days
great description of products & their uses.
Barb M.
429 Days
You have a good product, Berberine, that works, at least it does for me. Price is reasonable and shipping is ok!
FRAKES James
429 Days
Excellent experience and quality products!
Robert Maddox
431 Days
Fast service, great price, excellent products
Vicki Bryant
432 Days
This purchase was in responce to my inquiry of a different supplement. Great staff.
Larry
434 Days
High end products. Fast and easy delivery. Trustworthy company. Great!
BUISSON Laurence
435 Days
Order always right and in a timely manner
Derek Osburn
437 Days
Got fast delivery.
Stephanie Kyle
439 Days
Arrived as promised
MITCHELL Rachel
439 Days
Excellent produt line and service! Very satisfied!
Bropain
442 Days
Had a meniscus tear a couple months ago, think this helped it heal faster
NYBERG Leah
443 Days
Educational. I am learning of new supplements for old problems.
Larry
447 Days
Easy and reasonable price
Cindy Vogel