Alcohol should be avoided to prevent the chance of increased and more severe inflammation. In some cases, the spleen, a blood filtering organ in the upper left quadrant of the abdomen, may become swollen and weakened. Rarely, the spleen may rupture, either spontaneously or as the result of sudden pressure on the abdomen. Rupture of the spleen is indicated by severe abdominal pain and requires prompt professional medical intervention. This complication is very rare but quite serious and may be life-threatening.
Mononucleosis is probably no more contagious than any other viral disease such as colds or flu.
However, the contagious state of the disease begins one to two weeks before symptoms appear, so a person may unknowingly infect or be infected by another person. As with any contagious disease, avoid close physical contact with others when you are sick and cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing. If your symptoms persist or worsen, medical treatment is available to all Messiah Students at the Health Center. Call 691-6035 for more information.