Can the epstein barr virus affect the respiratory?

Possibly.: It is possible for ebv infection to cause respiratory symptoms. In general, ebv infections are either asymptomatic or are associated with a mononucleosis like syndrome of tiredness / fatigue. In some patients (especially people whose immune systems aren't functioning optimally), ebv can cause pneumonia / pneumonitis (inflammation of the lungs proper). This is not common but is possible.