180 SECTION 3 • MEDICAL PROBLEMS IN THE ATHLETE
of their illness (Eichner, 1993). Third, no training may
prevent the spread of disease to other athletes (Primos,
1996) as demonstrated by the documented transmis-
sion of Norwalk virus during a college football game
(Becker, 2000).CONCLUSION
- Moderate exercise seems to be an immune stimulant
while intense exercise causes immune suppression.
There are no reliable immune markers, however, that
can help the physician make return to play decisions. - When athletes become ill proper care and advice can
minimize lost training time and maximize recovery. - Athletes with HIV can safely exercise without fear of
affecting their own illness or increasing the risk of
transmission to other athletes during competition. - Slowing or suspending training according to the “neck
check” protocol is critical to facilitating return to full
training.
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