Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is best known for causing mononucleiosis, or the 'kissing disease,' in teenagers. Almost all adults get EBV at some point in their lives, even if they don't get mono. New research shows that EBV infection may have longer-lasting impacts. Using data from the American military, researchers now show that EBV infection drastically increases an individual's risk for multiple sclerosis, a debilitating autoimmune disorder. In this episode, Dan and Derek discuss how these researchers figured this out and potential ways to prevent EBV infection (and potentially multiple sclerosis) altogether.

Bjornevik et al. Longitudinal analysis reveals high prevalence of Epstein-Barr virus associated with multiple sclerosis. Science, January 2022. DOI: 10.1126/science.abj8222

The information presented here is not medical advice. Consult your physician on any questions regarding your personal health.