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Infectious mononucleosis

A very common illness with well over 90% of all adults testing serologically positive for the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). As a child it manifests itself as a "flu-type" illness and as a young adult, college student, it can be very debilitating. The virus can be transmitted through intimate contact but here at Kenyon College we have very rarely noted any spread between roommates or others. From the time of exposure to demonstrating disease symptoms is between 30-50 days. Approximately 50-60 students will suffer from IM each year while at school.

Symptoms

  1. Fever, especially high at nighttime.
  2. Severe sore throat.
  3. Swollen lymph nodes around neck, jaw, groin.
  4. Nausea.
  5. Loss of appetite.
  6. Occasionally widespread rash
  7. Abdominal pain (occasionally)

Self-Treatment

  1. Monitor your temperature and treat with Tylenol (acetaminophen) every 4-6 hours or Advil/Motrin (ibuprofen) every 6-8 hours with a meal1
  2. Drink plenty of water and juices to prevent dehydration.
  3. Eat healthfully ... it may be necessary to eat soft food or drink high calorie beverages/food.
  4. Rest - take an afternoon nap until it begins to interfere with your nighttime sleep; then drop the nap.
  5. Avoid sharing eating utensils or sharing beverages from the same bottle or glass.
  6. Avoid injury to the abdomen.

Treat The Symptoms

Symptoms Treatment

Sneezing, Runny Nose, Stuffy Head(Congestion)

  • Decongestant of choice (Sudafed)
  • Expectorant of choice (Robitussin, Mucinex)
  • Antihistamine of choice (Benadryl, Chlorpheniramine, Claritin)

Fever, Headache, Body Aches

  • Tylenol (acetaminophen) 2 tablets every 4-6 hours or Advil/Motrin (ibuprofen) 2 tablets every 6-8 hours with a meal

Hoarseness, Sore Throat

  • Warm salt water gargles, lozenges, hard candy (lemon drops).

Health Center Visit Recommended If:

  1. You suspect you might have IM.
  2. Sore throat persists - for IM may be complicated by strep throat.
  3. Fever greater than 102 and not relieved by Tylenol or Advil.
  4. Sudden onset of abdominal pain.
  5. Inability to eat or drink.
  6. Weakness that becomes progressively worse.