Recover Safely from the “Kissing Disease”
According to the NHS, around 90% of UK adults have been infected with EBV by age 25, even if they didn’t show symptoms.
Glandular fever, also known as infectious mononucleosis, is a viral illness that mostly affects teenagers and young adults, and it can leave you fatigued for weeks.
At Imaan Healthcare, our trained pharmacists are here to guide you through diagnosis, symptom management, and recovery with care and confidentiality.
Glandular fever, also known as infectious mononucleosis, is a viral illness most commonly caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), part of the herpes virus family.
It is primarily transmitted through saliva, which is why it’s often referred to as “the kissing disease.” However, the virus can also spread through coughs, sneezes, or by sharing drinks and eating utensils.
In the UK, glandular fever is more common during the winter and early spring months, with the highest incidence seen in teenagers and young adults aged 15 to 25, especially among students.
According to NHS Digital (2024), there was a 13% increase in GP visits related to post-viral fatigue associated with EBV in 2023.
At Imaan Healthcare, this test is carried out in a private setting by trained pharmacy professionals. The process is quick, safe, and requires only a small blood sample, typically obtained via a finger prick.
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You’ll receive a clear explanation of your results based on NHS guidelines, including the normal cholesterol range and whether action is required.
Where appropriate, we’ll offer advice on lifestyle improvements, diet, and next steps. If your results fall outside expected limits, we’ll support you in contacting your GP for further investigation or treatment.
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We also offer guidance on how to monitor your cholesterol at home and support in selecting the right home cholesterol monitor if needed. Our aim is to make heart health easier to manage, whether it’s your first check or part of ongoing care.
All cholesterol testing at Imaan Healthcare is delivered in line with national standards and documented for your ongoing care, with your consent.
People choose Imaan Healthcare because of its fast and accessible support for suspected glandular fever symptoms, with no long waits or unnecessary stress.
Most people recover in 2–4 weeks, but fatigue can linger for several months.
StageDuration
Initial symptoms 1–2 weeks
Acute illness 2–4 weeks
Post-viral fatigue, Up to 6 months in some cases
To meet NHS Gateway Criteria, you must:
This service is for mild-to-moderate cases. If your symptoms don’t match the criteria, our pharmacists will help refer you to the appropriate care.
Your consultation is confidential.
We may check your NHS Summary Care Record to ensure safe, evidence-based treatment.
Our pharmacists will advise when symptoms suggest a GP referral is needed.
Call 111 if:
Call 999 in an emergency, such as sudden sharp pain in the left abdomen, which could indicate spleen rupture.
Let our team help you manage the illness and prevent complications.
Imaan Healthcare is a nationwide chain of nearly over 70 independent Community Pharmacies, meaning you can easily find a pharmacy near you. We employ over 300 people from the communities where our pharmacies are based, serving over 100,000 patients yearly.
