List of herpesvirus infection studies

Herpesvirus family viruses including Epstein-Barr virus, human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) and cytomegalovirus are associated with myalgic encephalomyelitis. This article lists herpesvirus studies examining the role and prevalence of herpesviruses in ME/CFS patients. Positive studies (finding herpesvirus more prevalent in ME/CFS patients than healthy controls) are indicated by a + symbol, whereas negative studies (finding no significant difference in prevalence between patients and healthy) are indicated by the − symbol.

Epstein-Barr virus studies
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is found in 95% of the adult population (usually in a latent state), and is the most common cause of mononucleosis.

HHV-6 studies
HHV-6 is found in nearly 100% of adults (usually in a latent state).

Cytomegalovirus studies
Cytomegalovirus is found in 50% of adults (usually in a latent state). Cytomegalovirus is a rarer cause of mononucleosis.

Varicella zoster virus studies
Varicella zoster virus (VZV) is found in 88% of the adult population (usually in a latent state). It causes chickenpox and shingles.

Herpes simplex virus studies
Herpes simplex virus I is found in 54% of adults, and herpes simplex virus II in 16% of adults (usually in a latent state). HSV causes oral mouth sores.

HHV-7 studies
HHV-7 is found in more than 85% in the US population (usually in a latent state).

Learn more

 * HHV-6 Foundation