Can a viral infection cause an increase in monocytes?

Generally, viral infections may cause an increase in monocytes. If necessary, timely medical consultation is recommended. The specific analysis is as follows:

When the body encounters a viral infection, such as influenza A virus, Epstein-Barr virus, or cytomegalovirus, the immune response will be activated. To fight against the virus, the immune system promotes the proliferation of monocytes, thereby increasing their numbers. As the largest type of white blood cells in the body, monocytes have the ability to phagocytize foreign substances and can eliminate virus-infected cells or cellular debris. Therefore, an elevated monocyte count during a viral infection represents a self-protective mechanism of the body, helping to resist further viral invasion.

During a viral infection, the proportions of neutrophils and lymphocytes may decrease. Neutrophils, a type of white blood cell primarily responsible for engulfing and killing bacteria, may decline in number during viral infections. Lymphocytes participate in the body's specific immune responses but may also be suppressed during certain viral infections. Due to reductions in both neutrophils and lymphocytes, the proportion of monocytes among white blood cells increases relatively, leading to a higher monocyte count.

During a viral infection, the body requires more energy to combat the virus; therefore, it is important to maintain adequate sleep and rest and to avoid excessive fatigue.