Who would have thought it? A cuddly toy in the shape of a virus! These cuddly characters are incredibly endearing and educational too. Each one comes with a detailed scientific description and photograph of what he looks like under the microscope, along with medical tips on how to avoid picking up these bugs in daily life. Children seem to be totally fascinated by them, and it really helps when explaining all about why they are feeling poorly. The perfect gift to accompany a Get Well card. Also a brilliant present for medical students, doctors and nurses etc. You will soon understand why they are becoming amazingly popular! Start collecting now. Facts: The kissing disease or mononucleosis is caused by the Epstein Barr virus (named after its discoverers Michael Epstein and Y.M Barr). More than 95% of the population is infected. Most people catch the virus at a very young age, at which time the symptoms are often too mild to be noticed. However, those who catch it when they are young adults (or older) suffer from sore throats, swollen lymph glands, and extreme malaise. In addition the spleen can become enlarged. Sports and strenuous activities must be avoided to prevent rupture. Epstein Barr virus also causes an increase in the level of mononuclear white blood cells in the blood, which is how the disease got its nickname. Nevertheless, Epstein Barr is not very contagious. Transmissions require close contact such as kissing or sharing drinks. And with an incubation period of 4-5 weeks, it can be a while before you know whether you've caught it. Most people get over Epstien Barr in a couple of weeks through it can take up to a year to kiss the virus goodbye!