Multiple Sclerosis Queensland

MS risk increases with common virus infection

Thursday, 11 March 2010 13:31

Researchers in the United States have discovered a strong link between the Epstein-Barr virus, one of the world’s most common human viruses, and the risk of developing multiple sclerosis.

A study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health and Walter Reed Army Institute found the likelihood of MS increases when a person is infected with EBV. Their findings implicate EBV – a herpes virus – as a “contributory cause” of the disease.

Hundreds of thousands of individuals not infected with EBV were observed over several years and researchers were able to determine the point when individuals developed the virus and its relation to MS onset.

Australian Researchers Discover How MS Genes Works to Cause MS

Tuesday, 02 March 2010 16:26

The Australian scientists who in 2007 discovered the MS susceptibility gene IL-7Ra have gone on to uncover how it might be working, opening the door to potentially new approaches to treat MS.

Prof Claude Bernard from Monash University highlights “This is an important and significant piece of MS research, showing that genetic variations in the IL-7 receptor alpha chain, influence the development of immune cells. More over, these findings may soon allow us to differentiate healthy individuals from those with MS as well as other neurological disorders.”

Employment and MS Study

Monday, 01 March 2010 11:41

When should I tell my employer? What will happen? How can I stay at work as long as possible?

These are questions often asked by people in the workforce living with a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis.

Recent results from large sample surveys of People with MS by the Australian MS Longitudinal Study, ( Rex D. Simmons, Kate L. Tribe, Elizabeth a. McDonald) show some important information with implications for these people, their employers and their health professionals.