The Epstein-Barr virus is named after its pioneers, the English doctors Epstein and Barr, who discovered it in 1964. An infectious disease that is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus is called "infectious mononucleosis." In young children, infection with this virus is often not noticed, since it proceeds fairly easily, but at an older age the virus leads to a typical picture of infectious mononucleosis, literally "knocking down" a patient. This disease can occur at any age, but most often it occurs in children aged 4 to 15 years.
Epstein-Barr virus in children: symptoms
The incubation period lasts from 4 to 8 weeks. It begins with the symptoms typical for viral infections. There is weakness, joint pain, headache, decreased appetite, chills. After 2-3 days, a strong pharyngitis develops, which can last for a week, the temperature rises to 39-40 ° C, the baby's lymph nodes increase. Some children have complaints of abdominal pain, which is associated with an increase in the liver and spleen. A certain number of patients develop a rash that looks like a rash in scarlet fever.
Usually the symptoms last about two weeks, however, weakness and general intoxication of the body can last for several months.
Treatment of the Epstein-Barr virus in children
- With this disease shows bed rest, a minimum of physical exertion.
- Treatment is symptomatic as in viral diseases.
- It is advisable to use as much warm liquid as possible. The food of the child should be low-calorie and easily digestible. High temperature must be lowered by antipyretic on the basis of paracetamol, suitable for age.
- Even after the acute phase of the disease has passed, after infection with the Epstein-Barr virus, it is necessary to keep the child from physical exertion for at least four more weeks.
What is dangerous Epstein-Barra virus?
Serious complications are rare, but one should know about them. Perhaps a secondary bacterial complication, as well as damage to the central nervous system. In the blood, a decrease in the number of blood elements such as red blood cells, leukocytes, platelets can be detected. As a result of the destruction of red blood cells by antibodies, anemia can develop.
Very rare, but also life-threatening a child, a complication is the rupture of the spleen.
Epstein-Barra virus: consequences
The prognosis for children with Epstein-Barr virus is positive. Acute symptoms last for 2-3 weeks. Only in 3% of patients this period is longer.
At the same time, weakness and pain can last from one to several months.
Prevention of Epstein-Barr virus
Unfortunately, there are no special measures that will allow you and your child to prevent infection with the Epstein-Barr virus. However, the less often you visit public places, the places of a large congestion of people, the more likely that this disease will bypass your house side. Remember that the virus is transmitted by airborne droplets, when the carrier of the disease sneezes or coughs, and also through kisses.