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Acyclovir is an antiviral medication specifically designed to target viruses in the herpes family. It is primarily effective against herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2, which are responsible for conditions such as oral and genital herpes. Furthermore, acyclovir is also used in the treatment of infections caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, though less frequently.

The mechanism of acyclovir focuses on inhibiting viral DNA synthesis, which is crucial for the replication of these viruses. By doing so, it effectively reduces the severity and duration of outbreaks associated with these infections. Therefore, the emphasis on herpes simplex and Epstein-Barr as the primary infections treated with acyclovir is well-founded.

While HIV-related infections, urinary tract infections, and mycobacterial infections represent significant health concerns, they are not the target uses for acyclovir. HIV treatment typically employs a different class of antiviral medications, urinary tract infections are generally treated with antibiotics, and mycobacterial infections, like tuberculosis, require different therapeutic approaches altogether. Thus, the connection of acyclovir to herpes simplex and Epstein-Barr clearly underscores the relevance and specificity of its application in viral infections.