It’s estimated that almost 95% of the adult population of the U.S. has been infected by the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) at one point in their lives. While most develop immunity to the virus, some individuals with weakened immune systems develop long-term complications as a result of their EBV infection. These complications can include chronic fatigue syndrome, difficulty concentrating, and joint pain. In rare instances, an EBV infection can lead to serious medical conditions such as:
- Lymphoma encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)
- Meningitis (inflammation of fluid and membranes surrounding the brain)
- Certain cancers of the nose and throat
- Nerve damage
- Anemia
- Abnormal behavior
- Blocked airways due to swollen lymph nodes
There is currently no vaccine to protect against EBV.
Obtaining Social Security Disability Benefits for EBV Can Be Difficult
If the symptoms of a chronic EBV infection become so severe that you are unable to work, you may want to consider applying for Social Security disability benefits.
Obtaining Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) Social Security disability benefits can be difficult, however. There is no listing for EBV in the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book of disabilities. To qualify for Social Security disability benefits due to EBV, you have to be able to prove that you can’t work or earn a living due to the debilitating symptoms of your illness and that these symptoms are expected to last for more than 12 months.
Some of the documentation the Social Security Administration will require as evidence to support your claim includes:
- Doctor’s records describing your symptoms and prognosis
- Your history of treatments for EBV and your response to those treatments
- Documentation demonstrating how your disability limits your ability to perform daily tasks
- Documentation highlighting the complications resulting from your EBV infection.
- Records of hospitalizations due to EBV
Getting Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) Social Security disability can be challenging, especially if you aren’t familiar with the Social Security Administration’s process for reviewing claims. The representation of an experienced Social Security disability attorney can be invaluable in getting your claim approved.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-562-9830
EBV and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
While there is no Blue Book entry for EBV, there is one for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). If chronic fatigue is among the symptoms of your EBV infection, you may be able to claim benefits under the SSA’S listing for CFS, since the SSA recognizes a correlation between the EBV and chronic fatigue. You’ll have to meet all the other requirements under the CFS listing to qualify for benefits, though.
Speak to an EBV Disability Benefits Attorney About Your Claim
Marc Whitehead & Associates have been helping clients all over the U.S. get the Social Security disability benefits they need when their injuries or illnesses prevent them from working. We can even help you if your claim was initially rejected. Many individuals with valid claims have their applications rejected the first time they are submitted. In most cases, these claims are rejected simply because the claimant failed to provide the necessary documentation the SSA requires to approve a claim.
Don’t miss out on the disability benefits you deserve. Contact the offices of Marc Whitehead & Associates to discuss your social security disability claim. We can help you submit a claim that answers all the SSA’s questions and even represent you at a board hearing, if necessary. In many instances, we are able to handle disability benefits cases on a contingency basis, which means there are no upfront costs to our clients and we only collect a fee after your claim has been approved.
Call or text 800-562-9830 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
