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Epstein-Barr Virus Linked to Tripled MS Risk, Study Finds

4/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

The study, published in Neurology Open Access, finds Epstein-Barr virus–related mononucleosis may triple the risk of multiple sclerosis.
Researchers analyzed health records spanning more than two decades, comparing 0.17% of those with mono who developed MS to 0.07% of those without.
Jennifer St. Sauver, the lead researcher, says preventing Epstein-Barr infections could reduce MS cases.
The findings show an association, not causation, and further research is needed on prevention strategies.

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Story summary

The study, published in Neurology Open Access, finds Epstein-Barr virus–related mononucleosis may triple the risk of multiple sclerosis.
Researchers analyzed health records spanning more than two decades, comparing 0.17% of those with mono who developed MS to 0.07% of those without.
Jennifer St. Sauver, the lead researcher, says preventing Epstein-Barr infections could reduce MS cases.
The findings show an association, not causation, and further research is needed on prevention strategies.