Getting the Facts on Mono

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Mono is an infection caused by EBV, the Epstein Barr Virus. It usually starts out as a sore throat, fever and swollen lymph nodes in your neck and may be confused with strep throat or other viral upper respiratory infections.,Chances are someone you know, your roommate, your suitemate, someone on your floor or in your classes has been diagnosed with mono or Infectious Mononucleosis. So what does that mean?

Mono is an infection caused by EBV, the Epstein Barr Virus. It usually starts out as a sore throat, fever and swollen lymph nodes in your neck and may be confused with strep throat or other viral upper respiratory infections. Unlike strep however, antibiotics won't treat mono. And unlike other viruses, mono doesn't run its course in a week or so but hangs on longer.

In fact, mono is usually considered when what seems to be a typical viral infection doesn't get better. The test for mono (the mono spot test) usually doesn't turn positive until you've been sick for about a week. Usually you won't be tested until that point in your illness if you aren't recovering as expected for a viral URI.

So you had what you thought was just a cold, but you aren't feeling better despite taking Tylenol or ibuprofen for fever, aches and pains. You've been sick for a week, and if anything you feel worse, run down and fatigued. And your mono spot is now positive . what does this mean?

Again, because a virus causes mono, antibiotics won't help. In fact, treatment with some antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin) when you have mono can cause you to break out in a rash all over. The best treatment is rest, continuing Tylenol or ibuprofen, and making sure to eat a balanced diet to keep your energy up. If your symptoms are severe, you may be prescribed a course of Prednisone on a tapering schedule, which will help reduce the sore throat and swelling.

The main concern with mononucleosis is that the spleen might enlarge or even rupture. Although this is rare, it is very serious. Symptoms of a ruptured spleen are pain in the left upper abdomen, lightheadedness, rapid heartbeat and difficulty breathing. Due to possible spleen involvement, persons with mono are cautioned to avoid sports, dancing, heavy exertion or other activities which could result in injury to your abdomen until your health provider tells you it is safe, usually about three to four weeks after your infection starts.

Another common complication with mono is inflammation of your liver, which is indicated by a rise in liver tests. For this reason, it is recommended to avoid alcohol until your liver returns to normal.

The good news is that mono is not extremely contagious. It is carried in saliva and mucus and can be passed airborne through coughing, sneezing or kissing.hence the nickname the "kissing disease." Sharing water bottles, utensils and food can also spread mono. However, not everyone exposed to the mono virus gets ill. For many, their immune system can fight it off and they do not manifest any symptoms.

If you do have a roommate or friend with mono, don't despair. Again, while it is contagious, it isn't overly contagious, and simple precautions such as avoiding using the same water bottle and washing your hands frequently will help minimize your exposure. You do not need to be tested for mono unless you too start to develop symptoms. The common cold, which is much more contagious than mono, is more prevalent on campus this time of year. So hand washing or using Purell-type cleaners is very important for maintaining your health on campus.

Now you know the facts about mononucleosis. It is definitely not a reason to panic, but certainly an illness to take seriously. Always call Health Services if you need more information, at 860-768-6601.,Joslin E. Spencer

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