common sickness on college campuses. Mononucleosis, often referred to as “mono” or “the kissing disease,” is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus and is passed from person to person through coughing, sneezing and kissing. The virus is found in saliva and mucus. Signs of mononucleosis usually develop four to seven weeks after one is exposed to the virus. During this time, one could feel perfectly fine. Symptoms of mononucleosis in college age persons consist of fever, sore throat, swollen glands in the neck, and fatigue. Some also experience headaches, decreased appetite, abdominal pains and rash. For some, the symptoms are few and mild; others may be so ill that they are unable to eat or drink or look after themselves. There is no treatment or antibiotic for the Epstein-Barr virus as it is a virus and will only go away with plenty of rest and fluids. Generally people contract the virus only once in their lifetime but, once a person has contracted it, they are at a higher risk to contract it again. The main serious concern with mononucleosis is that the spleen will enlarge and even rupture. Any kind of strenuous activity during the course of mononucleosis could cause the spleen to rupture. Other complications of the virus include liver infections, producing a mild case of hepatitis and yellow jaundice. The Epstein-Barr virus causes one to feel extremely weak and tired, and unable to function. Eating meals sometimes seems too strenuous to the person. How can one be expected to keep up with the fast pace of college life when getting out of bed is entirely to hard? This virus is so common among college students that universities have policies written specifically for persons with this illness. Most of the students who contract this virus have to withdraw themselves from school for the remainder of the semester and pick up next semester where they left off or in most cases, start over. STDs (sexually ...
