Epstein – Barr Virus (EBV)

Epstein – Barr Virus (EBV) Latest News

According to the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer analysis, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is one of the causative agents responsible for a substantial cancer burden worldwide in 2024.

About Epstein – Barr Virus

• EBV, also known as human herpesvirus 4, belongs to the herpesvirus family.
• Transmission: It spreads mainly through saliva, including through kissing or sharing drinks, food, eating utensils and toothbrushes.
• Symptoms 
  • Many people infected with EBV have no symptoms. When illness occurs, symptoms can include fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes and marked fatigue.
  • After the initial infection, EBV remains in the body in a dormant state.
• EBV is classified by IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.
• Most cases of Epstein-Barr virus affect children, teenagers and young adults, but anyone can get the virus.
• It usually does not cause any harm, but the virus gets reactivated inside the body in some unusual conditions like immunological stress or immunocompetence.
• This may further lead to various complications like a type of blood cancer called Burkitt’s lymphoma, stomach cancer, multiple sclerosis.
• Treatment: There is no specific treatment for EBV. However, some things like drinking fluids to stay hydrated, getting plenty of rest can be done to help relieve symptoms.

Source: TEpstein – Barr Virus (EBV)H

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