Key points

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a common infection that can cause mononucleosis, or "mono."

Recent research has also linked EBV to the development of multiple sclerosis (MS).

Only a small fraction of people infected with EBV get MS, meaning EBV interacts with other factors.

The EBV-MS link reminds us that there is not a sharp line dividing infectious and chronic disease.

For decades, researchers have suspected that Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), best known for causing infectious mononucleosis, might also be involved in triggering multiple sclerosis (MS). Recent research provides the strongest evidence yet that this isn’t just coincidence.

Understanding Epstein-Barr Virus and Multiple Sclerosis

EBV is a herpesvirus that causes infectious mononucleosis (aka “mono” or “glandular fev

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