Epstein–Barr virus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Human gammaherpesvirus 4 |
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| Electron micrograph of two Epstein–Barr virions (viral particles) showing round capsids loosely surrounded by the membrane envelope | |
Virus classification  |
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| (unranked): | Virus |
| Realm: | Duplodnaviria |
| Kingdom: | Heunggongvirae |
| Phylum: | Peploviricota |
| Class: | Herviviricetes |
| Order: | Herpesvirales |
| Family: | Herpesviridae |
| Genus: | Lymphocryptovirus |
| Species: |
Human gammaherpesvirus 4
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The Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), also called human herpesvirus 4 (HHV-4), is a very common virus. It is one of eight viruses that belong to the herpes family. Most people around the world get infected with EBV at some point in their lives.
EBV is best known for causing a sickness called infectious mononucleosis. This illness is also known as glandular fever or "mono." EBV has also been linked to some types of cancer. It can also be connected to certain autoimmune diseases. These are conditions where your body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy cells.
How EBV Spreads
EBV usually spreads through saliva. This means it can pass from person to person through things like kissing. It can also spread by sharing drinks or food.
Who Gets Infected?
Most people get infected with EBV when they are young. In the United States, about half of all five-year-old children have already been infected. By the time people become adults, about 90% of them have had EBV.
When young children get EBV, they often do not have any symptoms. If they do, the illness is usually mild and goes away quickly. However, if someone gets infected with EBV during their teenage years, they are more likely to get glandular fever. About 35 to 50 percent of teenagers who get EBV will develop glandular fever.
What EBV Does in Your Body
The Epstein–Barr virus mainly infects two types of cells in your body. It infects B cells, which are a type of cell in your immune system. It also infects epithelial cells. These cells form the lining of many parts of your body, like your mouth and throat.
Once your body fights off the first infection, EBV does not completely leave your system. Instead, it stays in your B cells. It remains in a quiet, non-active state for the rest of your life. This means the virus is still there, but it is not causing an active infection.
Images for kids
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The EBV replication cycle
See also
In Spanish: Virus de Epstein-Barr para niños
