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    infectious

    Glandular fever recovery (adjunctive care)

    Also known as: glandular fever, infectious mononucleosis, mono, Epstein-Barr virus, EBV

    Glandular fever (infectious mononucleosis) is a viral illness, usually Epstein-Barr virus, causing fever, sore throat, swollen glands and profound fatigue that can linger for months. There is no specific antiviral treatment — rest and gradual return to activity are the mainstay. Chinese medicine supports the recovery phase, framed as residual Heat toxin, Qi and Yin deficiency, or Spleen weakness with lingering tiredness.

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    Lifestyle & Diet

    • •Rest genuinely during the acute phase — pushing through prolongs recovery.
    • •No contact sport, heavy lifting or alcohol for at least 4 weeks (spleen and liver protection).
    • •Return to work, study and exercise gradually — a little more each week, not all at once.
    • •Keep fluids up and eat simple, nourishing food.
    • •If fatigue lasts beyond 3 months, see your GP to review the diagnosis and plan.

    Cautions & Contraindications

    See sources
    • •No acupuncture or herbs replace medical review of severe throat swelling, abdominal pain or jaundice.[,]
    • •Avoid strenuous exercise and strong moving or heating formulas while the spleen is enlarged.[]
    • •Check liver function before prescribing herbs if there was any liver involvement.[]

    When to reassess or seek care again

    See sources

    Review energy and activity tolerance fortnightly during recovery. Fatigue persisting past 3 months, or any abdominal pain, jaundice or breathing difficulty, goes back to the GP.

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    Sources & Further Reading

    Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.

    1. Glandular fever — healthdirect
      healthdirect Australia · 2024
    2. Infectious mononucleosis — NHS
      NHS · 2024
    3. Chinese medicine practitioner safety standards
      AHPRA / Chinese Medicine Board of Australia · 2024

    Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.