The findings add to growing scientific evidence linking viral infections, particularly the Epstein-Barr Virus infection (EBV), to long-term neurological conditions. However, experts stress that the study shows an association—not direct causation.

Researchers analysed over two decades of health data and found that individuals with a history of mono had a significantly higher incidence of MS.

This suggests a nearly threefold increase in risk. Scientists believe EBV may act as a trigger in genetically or environmentally susceptible individuals.

EBV is one of the most widespread human viruses, infecting up to 90-95% of adults globally. While many infections are mild or asymptomatic, it can cause mono when contracted later in life.

Scientists suspect a mechanism called Molecular Mimicry, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own nerve cells after fighting the virus.

Previous landmark research has even suggested that EBV infection could increase MS risk by up to 32 times, making it one of the strongest known risk factors.

Symptoms of mono usually appear 4-6 weeks after infection and can include:

While most people recover within weeks, fatigue can persist longer.

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing mono or complications:

For mono:

For MS:

MS is more common in women and typically develops between ages 20 and 50.

There is no specific cure for mono, and treatment focuses on symptom relief:

Most individuals recover fully, though some may require medical supervision for prolonged symptoms.

The study highlights how common viral infections may have long-term health implications. While most people with EBV will never develop MS, understanding this link could help scientists develop preventive strategies, including vaccines or targeted therapies.

Importantly, experts emphasise that having mono does not mean a person will develop MS. Instead, the findings underscore the need for awareness, early diagnosis and continued research into how infections influence chronic diseases.