Multiple sclerosis (MS) is also likely caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. That shows a new study.
2.8 million people are affected by the disease Multiple Sclerosis affected. A chronic, inflammatory, neurological disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and has no cure.
But a study led by Alberto Ascherio, a professor at Harvard University’s TH Chan School of Public Health, has now uncovered a possible cause that might be responsible for the outbreak of MS might be responsible. Specifically, the scientists see a connection between the Epstein-Barr virus and the disease.
Ten million soldiers examined
The thesis has been around in scientific circles for some time, but the authors say this is the first study to provide compelling evidence of causality. For this, more than ten million young adults were in active service with the US military examined. 955 were identified who had been diagnosed with MS during their service.
The team analyzed serum samples collected by the military every two years and determined the soldiers’ EBV status at the time of the first sample and the association between EBV infection and the onset of MS during the period of active duty. In this cohort, the risk of MS increased 32-fold following infection with EBV but was unchanged following infection with other viruses.
The Epstein-Barr virus belongs to the Herpesviridae (DNA virus) and is transmitted by droplet infection. According to the University of Zurich, over 95 percent of the adult human population carry the virus. The virus does not break out in everyone, but they carry it with them for life. This is what triggers EBV glandular fever. You can get it at any age, the disease occurs most frequently between the ages of 15 and 25. The disease is also known as “kissing disease” because it is transmitted through saliva.
“Currently there is no way one EBV infection effective in preventing or treating it, but an EBV vaccine or targeting the virus with EBV-specific antiviral drugs might ultimately prevent or cure MS,” study leader Ascherio said.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease. It attacks the protective sheaths of the nerves. This disrupts the communication between the brain and body. MS is also called the disease with a thousand faces. The courses are very different. Symptoms include chronic tiredness, called fatigue, sensory and motor disorders, or loss of vision. Symptoms can come and go in episodes. The course of the disease is unpredictable: some of those affected are dependent on a wheelchair or become bedridden. Others live their lives with MS without ever needing an assistive device.
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