Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is one of the most common viruses in the world. It is best known for causing infectious mononucleosis (mono), often called the "kissing disease." More than 90% of adults have been infected with EBV at some point in their lives, often without realizing it.
At Banner Health, we help diagnose EBV and other viral infections. We also rule out other conditions and guide your recovery so you can get back to feeling your best.
Epstein-Barr virus is a member of the herpes virus family (human herpesvirus 4). It spreads primarily through saliva and is the most common cause of infectious mononucleosis (mono).
Many people infected with EBV never develop symptoms. Others experience mild illness that feels similar to a cold or flu.
After the initial infection, EBV remains in the body for life in an inactive (dormant) state. In some cases, the virus can reactivate and make you sick again, although most healthy people do not experience symptoms when this happens.
Epstein-Barr virus spreads most often through saliva (spit). That is why mono earned the nickname “kissing disease.” But kissing is not the only waythe virus spreads.
You can get EBV through:
Anyone can get EVB. Infectious mononucleosis is most common among teens and young adults (ages 14 to 24). About one in four people in this age group who become infected with EBV will develop mono. People with weak immune systems may have a harder time fighting the virus.
Many EBV infections cause mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. This is especially true in young children.
When the virus leads to infectious mononucleosis, symptoms usually appear four to six weeks after you are exposed. Symptoms may develop gradually.
Common symptoms include:
Fatigue is often the most noticeable symptom and may last longer than other symptoms. Most people start to feel better in two to four weeks. Some lingering fatigue can last around a month or two but it usually fades on its own.
Children often have very mild symptoms when they first become infected with Epstein-Barr virus. Many parents never know their child had it.
Teens and young adults are more likely to develop mono and experience stronger symptoms such as severe fatigue, sore throat and swollen lymph nodes.
Adults who become infected for the first time may experience symptoms that resemble a bad cold or flu.
Because EBV symptoms are similar to many other illnesses, diagnosis usually begins with a review of your symptoms and a physical examination.
Your health care provider may:
Blood tests can help confirm EBV and rule out other conditions. Tests may include:
Some providers may also use a Monospot test, which looks for antibodies associated with mono. While the test provides quick results, it is not always accurate and may miss some infections.
There is no specific medicine that cures EBV. Antibiotics do not work because the illness is a virus, not bacteria. The first line of treatment is supportive care.
Supportive care includes:
Mono can cause the spleen to enlarge. Because an enlarged spleen is more vulnerable to injury, your provider may recommend avoiding contact sports, heavy lifting and strenuous activity for at least four weeks. Your provider will tell you when it is safe to return to normal activities.
Many EBV infections improve on their own. Still, some symptoms should not be ignored.
You should also see your provider if you are pregnant, have a weakened immune system or have another chronic health condition.
Most people fully recover from the Epstein-Barr virus without long-term problems. However, researchers have found links between EBV and the development of other health conditions, like autoimmune and inflammatory conditions and certain cancers.
Studies have linked EBV to:
In rare cases, EBV can increase the risk of developing certain cancers, including:
A very small number of people may develop chronic active Epstein-Barr virus (CAEBV). This is a rare condition in which the virus remains active, causing ongoing symptoms and inflammation.
Whether you think you have mono or you're concerned about symptoms that won't go away, Banner Health is here to help.
We offer:
Our team will help you understand your symptoms, confirm a diagnosis and support your recovery every step of the way.
Find a Banner Health specialist near you.
Not exactly. Mono, or infectious mononucleosis, is the illness often caused by EBV. Not everyone who catches EBV gets mono.
Yes, EBV is a member of the herpesvirus family, officially known as human herpesvirus 4. It is one of the most common human viruses worldwide.
Yes. Adults can get EBV, especially if they were not exposed earlier in life. Symptoms in adults may include tiredness, fever and sore throat.
Yes. Epstein-Barr virus stays in the body for life after the initial infection. It remains in an inactive (dormant) state. While it usually causes no further problems, sometimes the virus can reactivate, causing symptoms again.
For most people, Epstein-Barr virus is not dangerous and improves with supportive care. Serious complications are uncommon.
People with EBV can spread the virus for weeks or even months after symptoms begin. Because the virus can stay inactive in the body, it may occasionally reactivate without symptoms.
Most symptoms improve within two to four weeks. Fatigue may last longer, sometimes for several weeks or months.
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