Senders Pediatrics has begun enrolling patients, ages 10 to 21 years old, in a very exciting clinical trial that seeks to eradicate the Ebstein Barr virus (EBV) or mono, as we know it. Senders Pediatrics is the only site in northeast Ohio and one of only two sites in Ohio to be included in the study. This clinical trial, that seeks to prevent infectious mono, is based on a mRNA vaccine (the same type of vaccine technique used in COVID-19 vaccines).  The new vaccine has been developed to prevent all EBV diseases, including mono, and has been shown, in previous trials, to be effective and to have a good safety record.

The Ebstein Barr virus is no joke. EBV is one of the most common diseases of childhood and adolescence. And for kids that get mono, while the symptoms usually go away within a few weeks, in some the tiredness and weakness can last for months.

According to studies about 90% of people in the US get infected with EBV by age 35.  Not everyone who has the virus develops mono symptoms — some people only carry the virus. Mono is spread through saliva. You can get it through kissing, but you can also be exposed by sharing food, drinks or food utensils or touching your eyes or mouth after you've touched something containing the virus.

Affected individuals develop debilitating fatigue, swollen lymph glands, and an enlarged liver and spleen. Following infection, EBV remains dormant in the body, but in immunosuppressed individuals, it can become reactivated and lead to more serious complications. Finding a way to reduce EBV infections in the world would be a major feat.

“This clinical trial is particularly exciting,” according to Shelly Senders, MD, founder and CEO of Senders Pediatrics, “because more than three million cases of mono are diagnosed annually in the US.  If we could prevent the misery that comes with this disease as well as the immune-related illnesses that can follow, we will literally change the world in one fell swoop!”   

For those interested in participating or for more information about the study and compensation, please contact Senders Pediatrics at 216-232-6520 or email [email protected] or visit senderspediatrics.com.

SENDERS PEDIATRICS, located at 2054 South Green Road, Cleveland, OH, was founded over 35 years ago by Shelly Senders, MD, to help create a pediatric care community. Senders Pediatrics’ goal has always been to help parents figure their kids out and to serve as a trusted guide to help parents navigate the challenges of raising children from cradle through college. Senders Pediatrics unique approach blends medical and behavioral expertise, experience, personal connection, community engagement and a willingness to look at out-of-the-box solutions for families.