Epstein Barr

Also known as: Epstein Barr virus, EBV, human herpes virus 4, Infectious mononucleosis, mono.

What is Epstein Barr?

Epstein Barr is the name of the virus that most often causes infectious mononucleosis, though it can also cause other illnesses.

What causes Epstein Barr?

The virus is the direct cause of the illness. It can be spread through saliva, sexual contact and other bodily fluids. It can also be spread by objects such as toothbrushes or drinking glasses.

What are the symptoms of Epstein Barr?

Fever, fatigue, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, an enlarged spleen, a swollen liver and rash are common symptoms of Epstein Barr virus.

What are Epstein Barr care options?

Illness from an Epstein Barr virus must run its course. No medication can cure the illness. Getting plenty of rest, drinking lots of fluids and taking over-the-counter pain medications are common treatments until the condition resolves itself.

Also, contact and collision sports should be avoided until the patient is recovered fully from infectious mononucleosis and the spleen is no longer palpable.

Reviewed by: Manuel Rafael Cotilla, MD

This page was last updated on: November 18, 2021 11:24 AM