Is Epstein-Barr related to other illnesses...not just mono?

I had blood work done many months ago and was surprised to find large amount of anit-bodies for the Epstein-Barr virus.

Epstein-Barr is typically the virus that causes Mono. However, I had no idea I was infected with mono in the recent past. The doc said I could have had it 6 months ago and is possible that it went undetected. What I find strange is that if I was infected, then how is it that the people closets to me, especially the boyfried..not fallen ill from this contagious disease? Is it possible for Epstein Barr to not always cause mono? Why do I have anti-bodies for this virus in my system?

It is not uncommon to have been exposed to EBV since childhood. But to have a high level of antibodies could suggest a more recent exposure as your doctor said. Mononucleosis can be asymptomatic.

But assume that you didn't develop mono but just carried the virus. Not everyone who is exposed develops mono. Since the virus remains in the body, unless it's active, you're not contagious. That would explain why you didn''t infect anyone else.

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some people who are exposed to the virus will develop antibodies to it without displaying symptoms of mono. this is very common.

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