'Kissing disease can lead to serious health problems'

Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Specialist Prof. Dr. Hakan Leblebicioğlu said that ignored kissing disease can lead to serious health problems.

Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Specialist Prof. Dr. Hakan Leblebicioğlu from VM Medical Park Samsun Hospital gave information about kissing disease. Stating that although the kissing disease virus is more common in young individuals, it can cause serious complications in people with weak immune systems, Prof. Dr. Leblebicioğlu said, “For this reason, it is important to contact a health institution quickly when symptoms begin.”

“Symptoms should not be ignored”

Stating that infectious mononucleosis disease Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is usually transmitted through saliva and body secretions, Prof. Dr. Leblebicioğlu said, “This is why it is called kissing disease. However, kissing is not the only way of transmission. The virus can also spread through coughing and sneezing. It can also spread through close contact, such as using shared drinks or food. The most common symptoms of kissing disease include fever, sore throat, fatigue and swollen lymph nodes.”

“Rest and fluid consumption are important”

Stating that patients are often diagnosed with beta disease and antibiotic treatment is applied due to enlarged tonsils and cryptic appearance, Prof. Dr. Leblebicioğlu said, “Failure to respond to antibiotic treatment is also a finding suggestive of the disease. Kiss disease is diagnosed with the patient's symptoms and blood tests. Blood tests detect antibodies that indicate EBV infection. There is no specific treatment for mononucleosis. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms. Rest and fluid consumption are important.”

“Hygiene rules should be observed”

Stating that personal hygiene rules should be observed and close contact should be avoided to prevent the disease, Prof. Dr. Leblebicioğlu said, “Close contact with people with the disease should be limited and kissing should be avoided. Some research shows that the virus may be associated with certain types of cancer and autoimmune diseases. The most commonly associated cancers are Hodgin lymphoma, Burkitt lymphoma, cancer of the upper pharynx, soft tissue cancer and stomach cancer. It has also been shown to be associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). Although most people are infected with EBV, the incidence of developing cancer is low. Therefore, it is recommended that individuals with kissing disease undergo regular health checks.”