New trial to test if Epstein-Barr vaccine can slow MS activity

A new clinical trial is now underway to explore whether an experimental vaccine for the Epstein Barr virus could play a role in reducing disease activity in people living with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Researchers are focusing on EBV because it is known to be a major risk factor for MS. The hope is that preventing the virus from reactivating may help to calm immune activity linked to MS.

The Phase 2 study, known as NCT06735248, is recruiting 180 adults between 18 and 55 who have a relapsing form of MS. To take part, people must have been diagnosed within the past two years, be considered neurologically stable by the study team, and test positive for previous EBV exposure. The trial is taking place across sites in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

Participants will receive either a high or low dose of the vaccine or a placebo. These will be given as three injections into the muscle over a six-month period. Everyone taking part will then be followed for around two and a half years. The main aim is to understand how safe the vaccine is, although the team will also track whether it has any effect on MS activity.

Click here to find out more about the study.