Cause 2: The Viral Connection – Microscopic Invaders
When it comes to the role of viral infections in MS, the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) takes center stage. This ubiquitous virus, which most individuals will contract at some point in their lives, has been implicated in the development of MS.
Most intriguing is the observation that almost all individuals with MS show signs of prior EBV infection. This association suggests that the immune response against EBV infection may, in some manner, trigger the cascade of events leading to MS in a genetically susceptible individual.
But the question remains, why do only some individuals with EBV infection develop MS? This quandary suggests that EBV infection alone isn’t enough to cause MS. There are likely other co-factors involved, such as genetic susceptibility or environmental triggers, which work in concert with EBV to precipitate MS.
Further complexity arises from the possible involvement of other viral infections, like measles, mumps, and rubella, which might also contribute to MS risk. The exact mechanism through which these viruses influence MS risk and progression is not yet fully elucidated and remains an active area of research. (2)
