Epstein-Barr << EHP styn BAHR >> virus, often called EBV, is a type of herpesvirus that causes infectious mononucleosis. EBV infects white blood cells called B lymphocytes and reproduces in mucous membranes, especially in the throat. Most people will become infected with EBV during their lives. Infection with EBV before age 15 usually causes no symptoms, or a mild flulike illness. Infection during adolescence or early adulthood usually causes infectious mononucleosis. Like other herpesviruses, EBV can persist in the body for years, alive but dormant, and later become activated.
The virus was first isolated by the British scientists M. Anthony Epstein, Yvonne M. Barr, and Bert G. Achong in 1964. Scientists have linked the virus to a type of cancer called Burkitt’s lymphoma, and to cancers of the nose and throat among certain populations. Scientists are also investigating whether the virus causes the disease multiple sclerosis.
See also Herpesvirus; Mononucleosis.
