Mono

[kloplad]

Good afternoon,

I have looked around at a few posts using the search function but cannot seem to get an answer.

I was recently diagnosed with mono at an urgent care doctor after having odd sore throat and other symptoms. After a few days, my sore throat cleared up however I have a few more symptoms. I have stayed off of contact sports and been excused from physical education class, in an effort to be cautious about damaging my spleen.

I was already offered a USNA appointment and accepted it. Was she right? I read the PTR packet from a previous year and it says to report anything that might prevent you from participating in the physical training program during plebe summer, and the doctor told me that it was not necessary to tell USNA about this illness since it will most likely be cleared up by I-Day.

If anyone is aware of the experience of this unfortunate illness, what should I do? This is the first week that I have noticeable symptoms, and I plan on visiting my primary care doctor this weekend. I really don't want my dream of going to USNA ruined because of this illness. Thank you!

 

[Old Navy BGO]

First, relax -- confirm the initial diagnosis, talk to your Doctor and determine course of treatment, prognosis and get their opinion of whether it will effect you this summer. Second, wait until you have received your PTR -- it will likely be the same, and you may have a duty to report, but the determination of whether it will prevent you from participating in PT is a medical determination that your Doctor cannot make at this time. Finally, trust your Doctor - if he/she says the Mono is going to effect your ability to participate in Plebe Summer --report it ! Your health is important. As I said here the other day, by offering an Appointment, USNA has made the decision that they want you and is not looking for a way to drop you. They may be able to work with you, including light duty or even deferring admission a year .

As an aside, you are not the first kid to get Mono right before admission. I got it the summer before I went to NAPS ; I don't remember timing but was like 3-4 weeks. I also don't remember the PTR package (maybe never got one since I entered through NAPS) or any obligation to report medical issues. I just showed up and probably told the Cadre or medical staff when I checked in. I don't recall it having any impact at all, but those were different times and don't think that record keeping or communications were as complete.

 

[NavyHoops]

Take a deep breathe. Wait until you see your Primary Care doctor for a full diagnosis. If you have mono, ensure it is thoroughly documented by your doc. Your DODMERB paperwork should have some statement along the lines of reporting any change in medical status. Go find that and read it. If you think this is a change in status, then report it. If you have mono, ensure you do a follow up and thoroughly have it documented when you get the all clear.

 

[bopper]

Also I would suggest dropping all of your ECs as much as possible...your new EC should be to rest.
Spend your energy on your school work and that is about it.