Discuss “HEALTH: Medical Note: Mononucleosis”

Finals and homework may not be the only thing making students feel tired this time of year. As temperatures fall, students spend more time indoors and around other people, increasing the risk of catching illnesses.

Mononucleosis is one such illness. Mononucleosis, commonly known as “mono” (and sometimes called the “kissing disease”), is derived from the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV). It was given its more colloquial name after being associated with being transferred through kissing.

Mononucleosis can be passed through any exchange of infected saliva, kissing included. But some more common causes that don’t involve the activities of love-struck individuals include sharing eating utensils, toothbrushes, and drinking glasses.

The virus...