Epstein-Barr virus

Context

• Epstein-Barr virus was the first virus linked to human cancers more than 50 years ago.
• Scientists have since discovered other cancer-causing viruses and have developed vaccines for several, but not for Epstein-Barr.

About

• The Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), is one of the nine known human herpesvirus.
• EBV is a double-stranded DNA virus.
• It is best known as the cause of infectious mononucleosis ("mono" or "glandular fever").
• It is also associated with various non-malignant, and malignant diseases such as Burkitt lymphoma, Hodgkin's lymphoma; gastric cancer etc.
• Infection with EBV occurs by the oral transfer of saliva and genital secretions.
• No vaccine can protect against the EBV virus. The best way to avoid catching it is to stay away from anyone who has mono.

https://www.sciencenews.org/article/50-years-ago-scientists-found-virus-lurking-human-cancer-cells