epstein-barr virus

[Michiko]

the herpes virus that causes infectious mononucleosis; associated with specific cancers in Africa and China

[Kit]

The Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is a type of herpes virus that is common worldwide and often causes infections in humans, usually in childhood or early adulthood. It is most well-known for causing infectious mononucleosis, also known as mono or the kissing disease. In addition to mononucleosis, EBV can also contribute to the development of several types of cancer, including Burkitt lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome. Most people become infected with EBV at some point in their lives, but not all will develop noticeable symptoms.