Human herpes virus 4 (HHV4) is also known as the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It is a member of the herpes virus family and one of the most common human viruses EBV is the major cause of mononucleosis. Transmission of the virus requires intimate contact with the saliva of an infected person thus giving it the name the “kissing disease.” The virus is a contagious infection and is transmitted through saliva. It is spread through coughing, sneezing, or sharing eating utensils with an infected person.

Symptoms of infectious mononucleosis are fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph glands. Sometimes a swollen spleen or liver damage will occur, and rarely cardiovascular and central nervous system issues will arise. There are no specific treatments, such as antiviral drugs or vaccines, for EBV. In some cases a steroid is administered to control the swelling of the throat and tonsils. Most