Exploring the complex relationship between Epstein-Barr virus and chronic conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome, long COVID, and EBV-associated tumors, while highlighting the challenges and advancements in research to develop better antiviral treatments and vaccines.
On 28 March it’s the 60th anniversary of the discovery of Epstein-Barr virus, the most common viral infection in humans. The virus was first discovered in association with a rare type of cancer located in Africa, but is now understood to be implicated in 1% of cancers, as well as the autoimmune disease multiple sclerosis, among others. Ian Sample meets Lawrence Young, professor of molecular oncology at Warwick Medical School, to hear the story of this virus, and how understanding it might help us prevent and treat cancer and other illnesses.. Help support our independent journalism at
theguardian.com/sciencepod