Mark Cavendish to take cycling break due to Epstein-Barr virus

British cyclist Mark Cavendish will take an indefinite break from the sport after being diagnosed with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).

Medical tests have shown the presence of the virus - which can cause glandular fever. CyclingNews.com reports that it’s the second time that the 33-year-old has been diagnosed with EBV.

Cavendish rides for Team Dimension Data and in a statement the team said: “Following medical examination we can confirm that Mark Cavendish will miss the upcoming immediate race schedule due to the presence of Epstein-Barr virus. 

“The medical results have indicated too that Cavendish will also have been unknowingly training and racing with EBV over recent months, and as a result of these findings he has been advised to rest in order to fully recover ahead of a return to training.”

Cavendish, who has won 30 Tour de France stages and competed in Olympics and Commonwealth Games, added: “This season I’ve not felt physically myself and despite showing good numbers on the bike I have felt that there’s been something not right.

“Given this and on the back of these medical results, I’m glad to now finally have some clarity as to why I haven’t been able to perform at my optimum level during this time. Having received expert medical advice as a result of the findings I’ve been advised to take a period of total rest in order to fully recover.

“I’m now looking forward to taking the time necessary in order to get back to 100% fitness before then returning to racing again at peak physical condition. I’d like to thank everyone for the incredible support I’ve received and I look forward to seeing you all out on the road again soon.”

What is the Epstein-Barr virus?

Science Daily reports that EBV is a virus of the herpes family and is one of the most common viruses in humans. Science Daily adds: “Most people become infected with EBV, which is often asymptomatic but commonly causes infectious mononucleosis. Epstein-Barr can cause infectious mononucleosis, also known as ‘glandular fever’, ‘Mono’ and ‘Pfeiffer’s disease’. Infectious mononucleosis is caused when a person is first exposed to the virus during or after adolescence.” 

According to Medical News Today the symptoms of EBV include:

• swollen glands 
• sore throat 
• fatigue 
• fever 
• skin rash