Herpes virus is similar to the human infection Epstein-Barr virus found in mountain gorillas

The researchers say the herpes virus is similar to the human infectious Epstein-Barr virus found in mountain gorillas.

According to a scientist at the University of California, Davis, this finding could help them find a way to conserve mountain gorillas. Not only that, they said the finding could also be of great benefit to people with Epstein-Barr virus.

Epstein-Barr - also known as herpesvirus 4 - infects over 90% of people worldwide, but often does not cause symptoms or serious health consequences. However, it can lead to some types of cancer in people with HIV / AIDS or have a weak immune system. This is also one of the main causes of mononucleosis with serious consequences later.

Herpes virus is similar to the human infection Epstein-Barr virus found in mountain gorillas Picture 1

Accordingly, the researchers analyzed saliva on gorilla plants in Rwanda and Uganda. They found that mountain gorillas suffer from herpes virus in a specific way, with less risk of infection for healthy individuals.

According to the researchers, the virus could be a threat to young, young gorillas, like the Epstein-Barr virus, which could be harmful to babies and children with HIV / AIDS.

The lead author of the study, Tierra Smiley Evans, a doctor of animal studies, said: "Herpes virus can work in the same way in different species ."

Smiley Evans said: " Understanding how gorillas respond to herpes virus in their natural environment can help us better understand the effects of herpes virus and Epstein-Barr on humans. Anybody? '

The researchers also noted that mountain gorillas are one of the closest relatives of humans.

This research has just been published in Scientific Reports.