When should I go to A&E with glandular fever?

Most cases of glandular fever can be managed at home with rest and pain relief. However, you should seek urgent medical attention (A&E) if you experience: Severe difficulty swallowing or breathing Intense abdominal pain (which could indicate a swollen or ruptured spleen) Signs of dehydration (such as not passing urine, dry mouth, or dizziness) Persistent high fever not responding to medication If you’re unsure, book a same-day appointment with our GPs for advice, and we can help determine whether hospital care is necessary.

What type of test is used to diagnose glandular fever?

The most common test is the Paul Bunnell (Monospot) test, which checks for antibodies to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). In some cases, a GP may also recommend a full blood count (FBC) or a more specific EBV DNA test, depending on your symptoms and the stage of illness.

Is the Paul Bunnell test the same as the Monospot test?

Yes, the terms Paul Bunnell test and Monospot test are often used interchangeably. Both refer to a blood test that detects heterophile antibodies, which are produced in response to an Epstein-Barr virus infection, the most common cause of glandular fever.

When is the best time to get tested for glandular fever?

The test is most accurate when performed during the second week of symptoms. Testing too early may lead to a false negative, so your GP may recommend waiting a few days or doing follow-up testing if results are inconclusive.

Can children be tested for glandular fever?

Yes, we offer paediatric blood tests and consultations with GPs who have experience treating children. The testing process is gentle and designed to be as stress-free as possible for young patients.

What happens after a positive glandular fever test?

If your test is positive, your GP will guide you through managing the illness, which usually includes rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medication for fever or sore throat. You’ll also be advised on how to limit the spread of the virus and what symptoms to watch for during recovery.

What is the treatment for glandular fever?

There’s no specific cure for glandular fever, but symptoms can be managed with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relief. Our GPs provide tailored advice based on your condition and can monitor for any complications during recovery.

Do I need time off work or school if I have glandular fever?

Yes, it’s usually recommended to take at least 2–3 weeks off to rest, especially during the most intense phase of the illness. Your GP can provide a medical certificate if needed for school, university, or your employer.

Do I need to isolate if I have glandular fever?

Glandular fever is less contagious than some other viruses, but because it spreads through saliva, you should avoid kissing, sharing drinks, utensils, or toothbrushes until you’re fully recovered. It’s not legally required to isolate, but limiting contact helps prevent spreading the virus to others.

Can a GP test for glandular fever?

Yes, a GP can arrange a test for glandular fever. At Midland Health, our private GPs can assess your symptoms and perform a simple blood test (such as the Paul Bunnell Monospot test) to confirm whether you have glandular fever. You don’t need a referral, and we can usually offer same-day or next-day appointments.

How do you get tested for glandular fever?

Testing for glandular fever involves a blood test, usually the Monospot test, which checks for specific antibodies produced in response to the Epstein-Barr virus. The test is quick and straightforward; a small sample of blood is taken during your GP consultation, and results are typically available within a couple of days.

Is glandular fever difficult to diagnose?

Glandular fever can sometimes be tricky to diagnose based on symptoms alone, as it often resembles other viral infections. That’s why a clinical examination by a GP combined with a blood test is the most accurate way to confirm a diagnosis. Our experienced GPs at Midland Health are well-equipped to spot the signs and provide prompt, reliable testing.

Where can I get tested for glandular fever in Birmingham?

You can get tested for glandular fever at your NHS doctor’s surgery or private clinics, such as Midland Health. The advantage of our private clinic is that we offer same-day or next-day GP consultations, with on-site blood testing and fast results. There’s no need to wait and suffer your symptoms any longer than necessary.

Glandular Fever Test in Birmingham

Home > Tests and Diagnostics > Pathology > Glandular Fever Test in Birmingham

Fast, Accurate Testing with No Waiting Lists or Referrals

Feeling constantly exhausted or battling a sore throat that won’t go away? You could be suffering from Glandular Fever, also known as infectious mononucleosis. We offer private, same-day Glandular Fever testing with no GP referral required and appointments to suit your schedule, including evenings and weekends.

No Waiting Lists
Same or Next Day Appointments
Convenient Private Clinic in Edgbaston, Birmingham

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Do I Need a Glandular Fever Test?

You might benefit from testing if you're experiencing:

Persistent Fatigue
Ongoing Sore Throat
Swollen Glands in the Neck or Jaw
Fever Lasting Longer Than Usual

Glandular fever can linger for weeks or lead to more serious complications like chronic fatigue syndrome or enlarged spleen, so it’s important to get diagnosed early.

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What is Glandular Fever (Infectious Mononucleosis)?

Glandular Fever, medically known as infectious mononucleosis, is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It spreads through saliva, which is why it’s often nicknamed “the kissing disease”, though it can also spread through coughing, sneezing, or shared utensils.

Most common in teens and young adults, the virus can cause severe fatigue and discomfort for several weeks. While there’s no cure, early diagnosis and proper care make a big difference in recovery.

Look Out for the Common Symptoms of Glandular Fever

Watch out for the following symptoms:

Extreme tiredness
Swollen lymph nodes (especially in the neck)
Fever
Sore throat (can resemble tonsillitis)
Swelling around the eyes
Headache
Muscle aches
Loss of appetite

If you’ve been feeling run down for more than a few days, it’s worth getting checked.

When should I go to A&E with glandular fever?
Most cases of glandular fever can be managed at home with rest and pain relief. However, you should seek urgent medical attention (A&E) if you experience:
- Severe difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Intense abdominal pain (which could indicate a swollen or ruptured spleen)
- Signs of dehydration (such as not passing urine, dry mouth, or dizziness)
- Persistent high fever not responding to medication
If you’re unsure, book a same-day appointment with our GPs for advice, and we can help determine whether hospital care is necessary.

How We Can Help

We offer expert diagnosis and care, all under one roof, from your first consultation to your results.

The Paul Bunnell Monospot Test

We use the Paul Bunnell Monospot test, a fast and reliable blood test that checks for antibodies your body produces in response to EBV.

Results are typically ready within 24–48 hours
The test is most effective after symptoms have appeared
Safe, simple, and carried out on-site during your appointment

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Prices

Express GP Consultation

£85

(15 min)

Standard GP Consultation

£135

(30 min)

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What Our Patients Say About Us

402 Total Reviews

Average Rating 4.4

Great, professional service as always at Midland Health.

T F | 28th Sep 2025

Midland Health

Dr. Pav Dhesi is really amazing and caring :)

Cecília Álvares | 21st Sep 2025

Midland Health

Thank you Dr Rupa Parmar you have been an amazing attentive person and I feel comfortable to discuss matters with you in your clinic and feel you are very knowledgeable and can provide solutions for my needs that I’ve come...

Pammy Bains | 21st Sep 2025

Midland Health

Fantastic!! Efficient service talking through process made my son feel comfortable most of all cleaned out his ears safely and to the best of ability.

Saima SARWAR | 18th Sep 2025

Midland Health

Second time here, all the staff are lovely and felt very welcomed at reception by Dia And health care assistants Vee Emily and Jo

Jaycoxhair | 9th Sep 2025

Midland Health

I saw Dr Sam Smith (gastroenterologist) at this practice. The information on the website was clear and helpful and making an appointment was easy.The practice is nice and modern and the admin staff were polite, kind and helpful, both on...

simone bacchini | 4th Sep 2025

Midland Health

This has been the best service I have received in my life. I am so grateful for the support I’ve gotten, it has been life saving. Thank you again !

Nafizah Bi farooq | 30th Aug 2025

Midland Health

Have used the services of Midland Health in two of their sites as I needed a Medical examinantion (and innoculations) to support a work permit application. The process has taken approximately 10 weeks fdrom start to finish and at all...

Sean OB | 26th Aug 2025

Midland Health

I had an appointment with Ms Fidan Bayli and was very pleased with the experience. She was very welcoming and gentle, and the examination never felt uncomfortable or rushed. I could truly feel her professionalism throughout the consultation. She gave...

Анна Гаджиева | 19th Aug 2025

Midland Health

Had a excellent service top notch I recommended anyone ear wax removal

Ahmed Mohamed | 15th Aug 2025

Midland Health

I have had two appointments with Dr Sam Smith, Gastroenterology and have been very happy with with my treatment and treatment plan, he was friendly and approachable which made me more comfortable to discuss any concerns. Overall very informative which has...

Romaine Sumner | 14th Aug 2025

Midland Health

We recently saw Dr Prasad Nagakumar for a clinic appointment for our daughter. He was very professional and empathetic and listened to all our concerns and answered all our questions. The staff at Midland Health in Edgbaston clinic were fantastic...

Sally El-Ghazali | 12th Aug 2025

Midland Health

I want to say a massive thank you to Dr Pav Hare for her outstanding service. I came in for an appointment, and she instantly put me at ease and started gathering an extensive history and my current concerns. Throughout...

Sahil | 9th Aug 2025

Midland Health

Highly recommend Dr Kudlur. Excellent service and prompt diagnosis. He has been brilliant at articulating the problem in a way that is easy to understand and helpful in creating tools to best manage my condition. I have seen vast improvement...

Angus | 31st Jul 2025

Midland Health

*I recently had a consultation with Dr. Dawson for my 4-month-old daughter, and I couldn’t be more grateful.** He is a highly qualified and understanding pediatrician, with a wonderfully caring approach to little ones. My baby was calm and relaxed...

Lesya Fedorovych | 28th Jul 2025

Midland Health

I recently attended Midland Health for a full Health Assessment/Medical Examination required for work purposes, and I couldn't be more impressed with the service I received.Dr. Pav Dhesi (GP) was fantastic—she was attentive, thorough, and took the time to listen...

Sabrina A. Said | 18th Jun 2025

Midland Health

Throughout multiple experiences over the past few months, the service has been consistently excellent. Appointment availability is remarkable – I'm always seen almost immediately, typically within a day or two at most.The GPs and consultants provide genuinely attentive care, listen...

Sibylle | 5th Jun 2025

Midland Health

Excellent doctor sam

time lapse | 30th May 2025

Midland Health

Midland Health has quite literally changed the course of my life.After years of struggling without answers, I finally took the step to get assessed for ADHD and ASD — and choosing Midland Health was the best decision I could have...

Unknown Reviewer | 27th May 2025

Midland Health

We visited Midland Health last week for some peadiatric blood tests. I had read some of the negative reviews posted previously so was a little hesitant, however from our experience it could not have been any better.We were greeted on...

Melanie Lovegrove | 27th May 2025

Midland Health

We are currently seeing Dr Rupa Parmar who has written up a personalised immunisation schedule for our baby daughter. Dr Parmar is excellent she's professional, listens, offers advice and genuinely cares. We are really pleased with the service we have...

Ellie Steer | 15th May 2025

Midland Health

We took our 4 month old daughter due to rash from suspected allergies, as NHS GP appointment did not lead to answers/ referrals. An appointment was available for two days later at Midland Health. Her allergies were confirmed in one...

Laura Bains | 4th May 2025

Midland Health

I had waited years on the NHS regarding my mild tongue tie. I had a frenectomy carried out by The NHS Coventry Hospital their maxilliofacial department, which was a bit of a fight to get as it seemed they considered...

Tasneem Abrahams | 29th Apr 2025

Midland Health

Excellent, service Dr Kudlur was very kind and knowledgable and didn’t interrupt me (Which I think would have been reasonable as I overran our time!)

Tom Owens | 23rd Apr 2025

Midland Health

From my personal experience, I am so grateful to be in a position where I was able to book a private assessment for diagnosing my ADHD with Dr Kudlur.Due to my circumstances, this prognosis required immediate action, whereas the NHS...

Jordan | 23rd Apr 2025

Midland Health

Mine experience was very good 👍. Dr very nice and polite. She checked my son very well and he improved .

Sidra Ahmed | 15th Apr 2025

Midland Health

Dr Naganna and the other members of the team were excellent when we attended with our daughter. They were thorough and answered all our questions. An excellent team and an excellent location

Kashini Andrew | 12th Apr 2025

Midland Health

I’ve had two treatments so far with Emma Conway, just want to say she is absolutely brilliant - still on the journey to achieve my results but she really makes an effort and cares, she provides great customer service even...

Saira M | 7th Apr 2025

Midland Health

Received excellent and consistent support with no issues and I recommend the service fully.

Callum Peters | 30th Mar 2025

Midland Health

Yes I was happy with my consultation

Sue Gardner | 28th Mar 2025

Midland Health

Your Testing Process

We aim to make your experience as smooth, reassuring, and fast as possible.

Book Your Appointment: Online, by phone, or by email.
Consultation with a Midland Health GP: We’ll assess your symptoms and discuss your medical history.
Blood Test (The Paul Bunnell Monospot): Taken on-site during your visit.
Rapid Results: Typically available within 2-3 working days.
Follow-Up Advice: The GP will send their comments alongside your results, providing you with guidance on your next steps. If you’d prefer to discuss these in more detail, you are required to book a follow-up appointment. Usually, if the GP feels a follow-up is necessary, you will be made aware.

Book Your Appointment

What You Should Know

The Monospot test is most reliable after 5–7 days of symptoms
A false negative is possible in early stages. If symptoms persist, we may recommend a repeat test or additional viral screening
Treatment is supportive, rest, hydration, and pain relief are typically advised
Glandular fever can’t be treated with antibiotics, but our GPs can advise on symptom management and monitor for complications

Your health deserves clarity. Don’t let any uncertainty drag on; we’re here to help.

Book Your Appointment

Common Questions

What type of test is used to diagnose glandular fever?
The most common test is the Paul Bunnell (Monospot) test, which checks for antibodies to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). In some cases, a GP may also recommend a full blood count (FBC) or a more specific EBV DNA test, depending on your symptoms and the stage of illness.
Is the Paul Bunnell test the same as the Monospot test?
Yes, the terms Paul Bunnell test and Monospot test are often used interchangeably. Both refer to a blood test that detects heterophile antibodies, which are produced in response to an Epstein-Barr virus infection, the most common cause of glandular fever.
When is the best time to get tested for glandular fever?
The test is most accurate when performed during the second week of symptoms. Testing too early may lead to a false negative, so your GP may recommend waiting a few days or doing follow-up testing if results are inconclusive.
Can children be tested for glandular fever?
Yes, we offer paediatric blood tests and consultations with GPs who have experience treating children. The testing process is gentle and designed to be as stress-free as possible for young patients.
What happens after a positive glandular fever test?
If your test is positive, your GP will guide you through managing the illness, which usually includes rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medication for fever or sore throat. You’ll also be advised on how to limit the spread of the virus and what symptoms to watch for during recovery.
What is the treatment for glandular fever?
There’s no specific cure for glandular fever, but symptoms can be managed with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relief. Our GPs provide tailored advice based on your condition and can monitor for any complications during recovery.
Do I need time off work or school if I have glandular fever?
Yes, it’s usually recommended to take at least 2–3 weeks off to rest, especially during the most intense phase of the illness. Your GP can provide a medical certificate if needed for school, university, or your employer.
Do I need to isolate if I have glandular fever?
Glandular fever is less contagious than some other viruses, but because it spreads through saliva, you should avoid kissing, sharing drinks, utensils, or toothbrushes until you’re fully recovered. It’s not legally required to isolate, but limiting contact helps prevent spreading the virus to others.
Can a GP test for glandular fever?
Yes, a GP can arrange a test for glandular fever. At Midland Health, our private GPs can assess your symptoms and perform a simple blood test (such as the Paul Bunnell Monospot test) to confirm whether you have glandular fever. You don’t need a referral, and we can usually offer same-day or next-day appointments.
How do you get tested for glandular fever?
Testing for glandular fever involves a blood test, usually the Monospot test, which checks for specific antibodies produced in response to the Epstein-Barr virus. The test is quick and straightforward; a small sample of blood is taken during your GP consultation, and results are typically available within a couple of days.
Is glandular fever difficult to diagnose?
Glandular fever can sometimes be tricky to diagnose based on symptoms alone, as it often resembles other viral infections. That’s why a clinical examination by a GP combined with a blood test is the most accurate way to confirm a diagnosis. Our experienced GPs at Midland Health are well-equipped to spot the signs and provide prompt, reliable testing.
Where can I get tested for glandular fever in Birmingham?
You can get tested for glandular fever at your NHS doctor’s surgery or private clinics, such as Midland Health. The advantage of our private clinic is that we offer same-day or next-day GP consultations, with on-site blood testing and fast results. There’s no need to wait and suffer your symptoms any longer than necessary.

Book Your Appointment

Why Choose Us?

We believe in more than just quick appointments; we believe in care that’s truly personal. Our approach to private General Practice is centred around you: your symptoms, your circumstances, and your overall well-being. From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll receive thoughtful, attentive care, delivered with clinical excellence and compassion.

Here’s what sets us apart:

Same-day or next-day appointments
No NHS referral needed, just book directly with us
Private GP consultation and blood test in one visit
Tailored advice and follow-up care
Experienced, friendly GPs who take time to listen
Modern, discreet clinic in Edgbaston, Birmingham
Appointments are available evenings and Saturdays too

We’re proud to offer private healthcare that feels personal, efficient when you need it to be, and thorough when it matters most.

Book Your Appointment

Visiting Our Private Glandular Fever Testing Clinic, Birmingham

Our Birmingham-based private Glandular Fever testing clinic is located in the heart of Edgbaston, offering easy access whether you’re travelling by car or public transport. The clinic is situated near Highfield Road, with direct bus routes stopping nearby, and it’s just a short walk from Five Ways Station for those arriving by train.

For those who prefer to drive, we offer convenient on-site parking directly outside the clinic. Inside, our modern facilities and experienced phlebotomy team ensure a smooth and discreet testing experience in one of our six dedicated consultation rooms.

Book Your Private Glandular Fever Test Today

Get peace of mind, fast. Whether you’re dealing with lingering fatigue or you’re worried about a loved one, we’re here to help you feel better, starting today.

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Digital Prescription

Midland Health has partnered with a highly reputable online pharmacy provider, Cloud Rx to ensure you receive your prescriptions directly to your home address as a next-day service. This way, you can be sure the medicine is available and delivered directly to your home or nominated address. No need for paper prescriptions or to have to go to multiple pharmacies to find the medicine that has been issued by our Midland Health doctors to you. To find out more about our digital prescription service please click here.