Is Epstein-Barr virus the same as glandular fever?
Ava Hudson
Updated on May 19, 2026
Glandular fever is the common term used to describe an acute viral infection called infectious mononucleosis. In the past, it was commonly known as kissing disease or mono. The virus that causes glandular fever is known as Epstein-Barr virus. Glandular fever mainly affects young adults.
Are EBV and glandular fever the same?
Glandular fever is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). EBV is most often spread through the saliva of someone who carries the infection. For example, it can be spread through: kissing – glandular fever is sometimes referred to as the "kissing disease"What is Epstein-Barr virus also known as?
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), also known as human herpesvirus 4, is a member of the herpes virus family. It is one of the most common human viruses. EBV is found all over the world. Most people get infected with EBV at some point in their lives. EBV spreads most commonly through bodily fluids, primarily saliva.What's the difference between mono and Epstein-Barr?
Epstein-Barr is the virus that causes mononucleosis. You might know this disease better by its nickname, "mono." It's also called the "kissing disease" because of one way you can spread it to someone else. Even though Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) isn't a household name, you've probably been infected without knowing it.Does glandular fever stay in your body forever?
The virus remains in the body for life, lying dormant in throat and blood cells. The antibodies provide lifelong immunity, and glandular fever rarely comes back a second time. Sometimes, however, the virus becomes active again. This can occasionally cause symptoms, especially in a person with a weakened immune system.Epstein Barr Virus and Infectious Mononucleosis (pathophysiology, investigations and treatment)
How do you permanently get rid of Epstein-Barr?
EBV never truly goes away. Even if the symptoms subside, the virus will remain inactive inside your body until it is reactivated by a trigger. Some triggers include stress, a weakened immune system, taking immunosuppressants, or hormonal changes such as menopause.What are the symptoms of chronic Epstein-Barr?
Chronic EBV
- swollen or tender lymph nodes.
- fever.
- enlarged liver (hepatomegaly) or spleen (splenomegaly)
- fatigue.
- sore throat.
- headache.
- muscle pain.
- joint stiffness.
What diseases are associated with Epstein-Barr virus?
EBV-related diseases
- Infectious mononucleosis. IM usually occurs during adolescence or adulthood but can occasionally affect children and the elderly. ...
- Hodgkin's lymphoma. ...
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. ...
- Burkitt's lymphoma. ...
- Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease. ...
- Nasopharyngeal carcinoma.