The disease is rarely fatal. A chronic form is suggested as one of the causes of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. A syndrome resembling infectious mononucleosis clinically and haematologically may be caused by herpesvirus 6, cytomegalovirus or toxoplasmosis. Public Health Signicance and Occurrence Glandular fever is most commonly seen in high school and university students. About 50 per cent of those infected will develop the disease that is spread by close, personal contact.
Occurrence is worldwide and widespread in early childhood in developing countries.
A full blood examination shows mononucleosis and lymphocytes of 50 per cent or more, including 10 per cent or more atypical cells. Paul Bunnell Test. Young children may be infected by saliva on the hands of attendants or on toys. Incubation Period From four to six weeks. The period of communicability is prolonged.