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Doctors may soon have a new method to treat multiple sclerosis (MS) at their disposal.

Scientists at Queen Mary, University of London have found evidence that the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) causes the body's own immune system to trigger the MS symptoms.

Past studies had suggested that EBV could be a potential cause of the illness, but this is the first time that its mechanisms have been observed.

Dr Ute-Christiane Meier, who led the research, said that EBV was a sophisticated virus that could hid in immune cells.

"If we can pinpoint EBV as a trigger, it's possible that we could alter the course of MS or potentially even prevent the condition by treating the virus," she added.

The research also suggested that the virus and its adverse affect on the immune system could be linked with other diseases such as strokes and brain cancers.

According to the MS Society, the illness affects around 100,000 people in the UK and normally develops in those aged between 20 and 40.

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