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Glandular Fever
Glandular fever, also known as infectious mononucleosis, is most commonly caused by the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), a member of the herpes virus family. While it frequently affects teenagers and young adults, it can occur at any age. The infection is highly contagious and is primarily transmitted through saliva, earning it the nickname the “kissing disease”.
Symptoms of glandular fever can range from mild to severe and may persist for several weeks. Common signs include fatigue, sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and general malaise. In some cases, the infection may involve the spleen or liver, making accurate testing essential. Some individuals may carry EBV without obvious symptoms, which can make detection challenging without a dedicated test.
Our Glandular Fever Health Profile provides a comprehensive blood test to detect Epstein-Barr Virus antibodies. This allows your doctor to determine whether a recent EBV infection or past EBV infection has occurred and to monitor recovery if the infection is ongoing. Early and precise diagnosis is vital for managing symptoms, preventing complications, and reducing the risk of EBV transmission.
EBVantibody test
48 hrsresults turnaround
GPled interpretation
UKASaccredited lab
Why a Glandular Fever test matters
Glandular fever (infectious mononucleosis) is usually caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and can leave you with weeks of fatigue, sore throat, fever and swollen glands. This test looks for EBV antibodies to clarify whether your symptoms are due to a current or recent infection, or whether you were exposed in the past and have developed immunity.
Knowing where you stand can explain lingering tiredness and guide how you manage your recovery — and every result is reviewed and explained by a GP.
What's included in your Glandular Fever test
Three Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) antibody markers.
EBV antibodies tested
- VCA IgM — detects antibodies indicating a recent EBV infection.
- VCA IgG — identifies past EBV exposure and helps determine your immunity status.
- EBNA IgG — assesses your long-term immune response and confirms a previous infection.
What your results can indicate
Recent infectionVCA IgM points to a current or recent EBV infection.
Past exposureVCA IgG reflects previous exposure and immunity.
Previous infectionEBNA IgG confirms an infection at some point in the past.
Explaining symptomsHelps make sense of lingering fatigue, sore throat or swollen glands.
How it works
Book onlineChoose a time that suits you, or call us. Most checks can be booked online.
Quick blood sampleA short, comfortable appointment at one of our clinical sites — around 15 minutes.
Expert lab analysisYour sample is processed by a locally based UKAS-accredited laboratory.
GP-reviewed resultsWithin 48 hours, a GP reviews and explains your results — with clear, personalised advice.
Is this test right for you?
It's a helpful choice if you have:
Persistent fatigueFeeling wiped out or run down for weeks.
Classic symptomsSore throat, fever or swollen glands.
Recently been unwellWanting to know whether EBV was the cause.
Checking immunityCurious whether you've had EBV in the past.
Why choose Solasta
GP interpretation, not softwareEvery result is reviewed and explained by an experienced local GP — so you know what it means and what to do next.
Accurate, accredited resultsAnalysed by a locally based UKAS-accredited laboratory (ISO/IEC 17025:2017) for reliable, fast diagnostics.
Continuity of careMore than a one-off test — discreet, unhurried care with ongoing support and follow-up if needed.
What to know before your appointment
No fasting required
There's no need to fast before this test — you can eat and drink as normal.
Timing of your test
Antibodies take time to develop, so if your symptoms have only just started it can be worth waiting a few days for the most informative result. Your GP can advise.
Stay hydrated
Please ensure you are well hydrated prior to your appointment, as being dehydrated may make the blood draw more difficult.
Biotin (Vitamin B7)
Biotin (Vitamin B7) is a common component of many multivitamins and is also available as a standalone supplement. Biotin is known to interfere with laboratory testing and can affect various blood results. Unless prescribed by your doctor, we recommend stopping supplementation at least 48 hours prior to testing. If the supplement has been prescribed, please speak with your doctor before stopping.
Glandular Fever FAQs
What is glandular fever?
Glandular fever, or infectious mononucleosis, is usually caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It often causes fatigue, sore throat, fever and swollen glands that can last several weeks.
What does this test measure?
Three EBV antibodies — VCA IgM, VCA IgG and EBNA IgG — which together help show whether an infection is recent, past, or whether you have developed immunity.
Can it tell whether my infection is recent or in the past?
Yes. VCA IgM suggests a recent infection, while VCA IgG and EBNA IgG point to past exposure and longer-term immunity. Your GP will interpret the pattern for you.
Do I need to fast?
No. This test doesn't require fasting, so you can eat and drink as normal beforehand.
When should I take the test?
Antibodies take a little time to appear, so if symptoms have only just begun it may be worth waiting a few days. Your GP can advise on timing.
How long do results take?
Results are typically ready within 48 hours of your sample reaching the laboratory, after which a GP reviews and explains them.
Will a doctor explain my results?
Yes. Your results are interpreted by an experienced GP with personalised guidance and any recommended next steps.
How is the sample taken?
A simple blood sample is taken at one of our clinical sites in a short, comfortable appointment of around 15 minutes.
Related checks & services
Full Blood CountA broad snapshot of your red cells, white cells and platelets.
Infection & InflammationMarkers that help investigate infection or inflammation.
Well WomanA comprehensive general health check across all the major systems.
Well ManA comprehensive general health check across all the major systems.
Ready to understand your health?
Book your Glandular Fever test online, or call us — NI 028 40 648 486 · ROI +353 1906 1950.
Book your Glandular Fever test online, or call us — NI 028 40 648 486 · ROI +353 1906 1950.