Lab Kit: Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV)

What is Epstein-Barr virus? Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a very common viral infection that spreads through saliva and body fluids. EBV is a type of herpesvirus called herpesvirus 4. Most cases of EBV don’t cause symptoms. Other cases, especially in adolescents and young adults, can lead to infectious mononucleosis. Once you get EBV, the infection stays within your body for your entire life in a dormant state where it's inactive or sleeping. You can reactivate the virus and experience symptoms again, regardless of when you first acquired the virus. Who does Epstein-Barr virus affect? Most cases of Epstein-Barr virus affect children, teenagers and young adults, but anyone can get the virus. How common is Epstein-Barr virus? Epstein-Barr virus is very common. In the U.S, an estimated 50% of all children up to 5 years of age and about 95% of adults experience an EBV infection in their lifetime. How do you get Epstein-Barr virus? Epstein-Barr virus is contagious and easily spreads through s