A new study suggests that the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a common childhood virus, may trigger lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease affecting millions. Dr. William Robinson from Stanford University states that this finding could apply to all lupus cases. Lupus causes the immune system to attack healthy tissues, with women disproportionately affected. The study reveals that EBV-infected B cells are significantly more common in lupus patients, leading to an autoimmune response. Researchers believe this viral response may also relate to other autoimmune disorders. Vaccines to prevent EBV infection are in development. Teljes cikk (Euronews.com)