Students are reporting multiple cases of mononucleosis across campus.
Mononucleosis, also known as mono, is an illness caused by the Epstein-barr virus.
Toni Pratt-Reid, owner of the Family Healthcare and Minor Emergency Clinic at OCU, said despite the appearance of mono on campus, it is not unusual for this time of year.
“Mono has been seen on campus and in Oklahoma City,” Pratt-Reid said. “However, this is not alarming because this is the season for mono.”
Pratt-Reid said cases of mono increased in recent years nationally.
“Oklahoma and the U.S. have seen an uptick in mono in the last couple of years,” Pratt-Reid said. “But I’m not sure what the campus has seen in past years.”
Lauren Calderon, nursing sophomore and member of the wrestling team, said some members of the wrestling team contracted the disease.
“There have been cases,” Calderon said. “But everyone is just about healthy again.”
Pratt Reid said students can prevent mono by avoiding contact with bodily fluids.
“Mono is typically spread through bodily fluids, especially saliva,” Pratt-Reid said. “Do not share drinks or eating utensils. It is important to remember these viruses can also spread through blood and semen during sexual contact.”
Pratt-Reid said those with mono tend to get better in two to four weeks.
“However, some people may feel fatigued for several more weeks,” Pratt-Reid said. “Occasionally, the symptoms can last for six months or longer.”
Symptoms of mono include fatigue, fever, sore throat, body aches and swollen lymph nodes.
Pratt-Reid said anyone who develops these symptoms should seek medical help.
“If you develop symptoms, seek medical attention and have a test run for mono,” Pratt-Reid said. “It sometimes takes a few days of symptoms before a test turns up positive. In the meantime, get plenty of rest and stay hydrated. Always avoid close contact with others that seem ill.”
The campus health clinic is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to noon and 1-5 p.m. Appointments can be made by calling 405-373-2400.
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