Would the Epstein-Barre Virus Cause Eye Infections?
MAY 01, 2013
Question:
Would the Epstein-Barre virus cause eye infections or bother the eyes at all?
Answer:
The Epstein-Barre virus is a member of the Herpes family and antibodies to it can be detected in over 90% of the population. The principal condition that is noted in those infected with this virus is mononucleosis. This is a systemic condition with rare primary infection of the eyes. As is true with most viruses of this type, there is commonly a headache with pain behind the eyes but no direct eye changes. The literature is full of extremely rare things that might happen to the eye but most are likely to have been coincidental given how rare they are. You can feel confident that your eyes will not be affected in any serious way if you experience this condition.