Research links Epstein-Barr virus with increased risk of multiple sclerosis

• As per the latest research, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) can increase the risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS).

About Multiple Sclerosis:

• It is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves.
• In MS, the immune system attacks the protective sheath (myelin) that covers nerve fibers and causes communication problems between your brain and the rest of your body.
• Eventually, the disease can cause permanent damage or deterioration of the nerve fibers.
• There are many possible causes of MS, including:
  • Autoimmune disorders;
  • Infectious agents, such as viruses;
  • Environmental factors;
  • Genetic factors;
• Signs and symptoms:
  • It vary widely between patients and depend on the location and severity of nerve fiber damage in the central nevous system.
  • Some people have mild symptoms, such as blurred vision and numbness, and tingling in the limbs.
  • In severe cases, a person may experience paralysis, vision loss, and mobility problems.
• Treatment: There's no cure for multiple sclerosis. However, there are treatments to help speed the recovery from attacks, modify the course of the disease and manage symptoms.

What is the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)?

• It is one of the most common human viruses in the world.
• It spreads through bodily fluids, especially saliva (spit).
• Symptoms: Fatigue, fever, inflamed throat, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, enlarged spleen, swollen liver, rash.
• EBV can cause infectious mononucleosis, also called mono, and other illnesses.
• There is no vaccine to protect against EBV infection.