Starting on Thursday, Jan. 26, a free health screening event for the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) will be held at Faith Presbyterian Church near San Diego State University. EBV causes mono AKA the kissing disease.

The screening event will run Jan. 26-28, 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. The church is located at 5075 Campanile Drive, #2334.

This is an especially important initiative as college campuses can quickly become a breeding ground for mono with so many young people living in close quarters. EBV spreads primarily through bodily fluids, especially saliva. Despite the virus being most common in young adults, many are unaware they’re carrying the disease. Organizers are seeking young adults and college students to participate. People can come to a testing location near the campus and be screened for EBV.

The screenings are being held by Care Access, a community-focused clinical research organization accelerating the future of new medicines and treatments.

Those who give blood samples will be compensated for their time and travel expenses.

There is no cost to participate and health insurance is not required.

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