Researchers have found more evidence that one of the world’s most common viruses may be linked to the disease multiple sclerosis.

The Epstein-Barr virus has long been suspected of playing a part in development of MS.

Last week, Harvard researchers reported one of the largest studies yet to support the possible link between the virus and MS.

The scientists searched the samples for antibodies signaling viral infection.

Only one of the MS patients had no evidence of the Epstein-Barr virus before their MS diagnosis.

And the researchers found no evidence that other viral infections were involved.

The findings “strongly suggest” that Epstein-Barr infection is “a cause and not a consequence of MS,” study leader Alberto Ascherio and his team reported in the publication Science.

The virus appears to be “the initial trigger,” Dr.

The virus remains inactive in the body after infection and has been linked to later development of some autoimmune diseases, including MS, and rare cancers.

Whatever the cause may be, the new study is “the strongest evidence to date that Epstein-Barr contributes to cause MS,” said Mark Allegretta.

He added that the evidence, “opens the door to potentially prevent MS by preventing Epstein-Barr infection.”.