Immune Profiling and Biospecimen Collection in Acute Epstein-Barr Virus Infection

In this study, we want to understand Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) infection as it happens in teens and young adults. This could support development of future protections like vaccines. 

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), also known as human herpesvirus-4, is one of the viruses that can cause mono (infectious mononucleosis). It is very common. Most people get EBV as kids, and don’t get any symptoms. But if you are infected as a teen or older, it can lead to mono  and other more serious illnesses.  

After infection, the virus can remain dormant in the body and can reactivate later in your life. If it does, you may not have any symptoms but could still spread the virus to others.  

There are not currently any licensed vaccines or antiviral therapies for EBV, despite the serious health impact it can have on teens and young adults. Better understanding of EBV infections is important to help researchers work towards these protections.  

This study is looking for participants who: 

• Are between the ages of 16-25 years; 

• Are not immunocompromised; 

• Are not pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant; 

• Have no known history of having infectious mononucleosis (also known as mono); 

• Can travel to Halifax, NS for clinic visits, and; 

• Are willing to give blood and saliva samples  

What to expect if you sign up for this study: 

Phase 1 (Screening and Surveillance) 

• Screening to check if you can participate (this includes a pregnancy test and other health evaluations) 

• A blood sample to see if you have had EBV before (this will check for antibodies in your blood that show your immune system has encountered EBV) 

• If you haven’t had EBV and qualify for the study,  you will be asked to attend six additional scheduled clinic visits which will involve blood and saliva samples (spit samples). The visits will be spread out over four months. 

Phase 2 (Infection) 

If you naturally develop an EBV infection while enrolled in the study: 

• you will be asked to attend up to twelve additional clinic visits so we can monitor your illness and to give blood and saliva samples during your infection 

• These additional visits could last up to six months 

Participants will be financially compensated for each clinic visit. Free parking or a local bus ticket can be provided. 

A member of the study team will go over all the study details with you to make sure you understand all the details and possible risks before agreeing to take part.