The disclosure relates to methods of controlling the state of a virus (lytic or lysogenic) in an individual, such as a method of reactivating a latent virus in an individual, comprising administering one or more agents that modulates the activity of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) or any of p300, CBP or p300/CBP. Also contemplated are methods further comprising administering an HDAC modulating agent, such as an HDAC inhibiting agent or an HDAC activating agent.