Mononucleosis, commonly known as the "kissing disease," is once again having its way with Dartmouth students and their energy.
Mono is a relatively common virus that leaves students constantly feeling weak. Dick's House sees about 100 cases a year, Director of College Health Services John Turco said.
"Many people have had mono but didn't even know it. There is a fairly high chance of getting it once during four years at Dartmouth," Turco said.
Mono is not as contagious as the chicken pox or the measles, Turco said. In fact, intimate contact -- such as sharing a drink -- is required to spread the virus.
The most frequent symptoms include a high fever and swollen glands. Early symptoms of mono are similar to those of the flu -- fever, headache, sore throat, runny nose, congestion and a general feeling of weakness.
All major symptoms disappear within two or three weeks, but feelings of weakness and lack of energy often persist for five or six, according to the American Medical Association's Family Guide.
Mono is not dangerous, but tends to recur during the year following the initial attack. The Epstein-Barr virus that causes mono remains in the body for years, Turco said.
But Turco said that after an initial attack of mono, the body produces antibodies to warn away the virus, making it uncommon for someone to catch it again.
A blood test is necessary to detect the presence of infectious mono. Once diagnosed with mono, the only remedy is rest, rest and more rest, according to the Family Guide.
Doctors recommend drinking plenty of liquids such as water and fruit juice. Advil may help relieve sore throats and body aches, Turco said.
In severe cases, doctors may prescribe Prednizone to decrease symptoms like swollen glands, Turco said.
There are varying degrees of mono. Most Dartmouth students continue to attend classes and are able to keep up with their school work, Turco said. But athletes are often required to miss three or four weeks of practice in order to regain their strength.
Sarah Hobson '97, a member of the diving team, said, "At first, getting mono was really disappointing; it makes you feel unhealthy. I look at people jogging and think, 'They have their health!' Now, I just have to listen to my body first."
