The Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), also called human herpesvirus 4 (HHV-4), is a virus of the herpes family, and is one of the most common viruses in humans.It is best known as the cause of infectious mononucleosis (glandular fever). It is also associated with particular forms of cancer, such as Hodgkin's lymphoma, Burkitt's lymphoma, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and conditions associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) such as hairy leukoplakia and central nervous system lymphomas. There is evidence that infection with the virus is associated with a higher risk of certain autoimmune diseases, especially dermatomyositis, systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren's syndrome, and multiple sclerosis.Infection with EBV occurs by the oral transfer of saliva and genital secretions.What are the symptoms?
These include swollen glands in the neck, armpit and groin, fever, sore throat and loss of appetite.
Sufferers feel very ill and experience headaches, loss of appetite, and have no energy. Usually, the infection begins with a feeling of general illness that lasts several days to a week. Then a fever, sore throat and enlarged lymph nodes in the neck and groin appear.
In more than 50 per cent of sufferers, the spleen and liver can enlarge, and, less commonly, there is jaundice and swelling around the eyes.In rare cases, an Epstein-Barr virus infection can result in serious or life-threatening complications, such as meningitis, hepatitis or ruptured spleen,Change in alertness or level of consciousness or passing out,Dizziness,High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit),Left upper abdominal pain (possible rupture of spleen),Lethargy or unresponsiveness,Rash of small reddish purple spots,Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing, wheezing, not breathing, or choking,Seizure,Stiff neck,Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice).
What causes an Epstein-Barr virus infection?
Epstein-Barr virus is a member of the herpesvirus family of viruses. The Epstein-Barr virus is contagious and spreads from person to person through intimate contact in which saliva is exchanged. This is why mononucleosis, which is often caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, is commonly referred to as “the kissing disease.”The Epstein-Barr virus can spread from person to person by such activities as:
-Kissing
-Sharing unwashed water bottles, drinking glasses, eating utensils and dishes, and personal items used in and around the mouth, such as toothbrushes and lip balm
-Spitting in the face near or in the mouth, or on the lips
What are the risk factors for catching the Epstein-Barr virus?
The Epstein-Barr virus can occur in any age group or population. Almost everybody will develop an Epstein-Barr virus infection at some point during their lives, but a number of factors increase the risk of catching the disease.Risk factors include any activity that exposes you to the saliva of a person who carries the Epstein-Barr virus. Carriers of the Epstein-Barr virus may not appear ill but can still spread the disease.
Reducing your risk of catching an Epstein-Barr virus infection
The Epstein-Barr virus is an extremely common virus that infects most people at one time or another during their lifetimes. In addition, many people who have had an Epstein-Barr virus infection may carry the virus in their saliva after they are no longer sick, which means they can continue to spread the infection.
Because of this, there is little that can be done to prevent its spread. However, avoiding contact with another person's saliva by not sharing unwashed water bottles or drinking or eating utensils and toothbrushes is still a good disease prevention measure. Washing hands frequently throughout the day with soap and warm water for at least 15 seconds is a good habit that can help prevent the spread of infectious diseases in general.stay health with a health partner.
What is the prognosis?
The illness from the virus will last from a couple of weeks to a couple of months. When it lasts more than six months, it is called chronic Epstein-Barr infection.The virus itself will remain with you for life, in a dormant form. It may reactivate at a later stage, but is unlikely to produce such severe symptoms again.
Is there any treatment?
While antiviral medications such as acylovir may help inhibit the virus, they can't get rid of the infection totally.
Symptoms such as headaches can be eased with aspirin or paracetamol.
Is Epstein-Barr virus associated with cancer?
The virus has been associated with a number of cancers, in particular Burkett's lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and non-Hodgkins lymphomas.In 2001, scientists at the University of Michigan found a molecular link between aggressive breast cancer and Epstein-Barr.Scientists don't know why the virus causes a relatively mild disease like glandular fever in some people, yet is linked to malignant tumours in others. Genetic factors may play a role.
Can diet help?
A diet that boosts the immune system may help reduce the length of the illness.
Cut down on dairy products and red meat, and eat plenty of fruit and vegetables. Take multi vitamins with minerals, plus Vitamin C and E daily.Stop smoking, and get plenty of sleep. Helpful herbs are Siberian ginseng and aloe vera.
