Could a common virus trigger mental illness? massive study investigates

NCT ID NCT07453420

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study uses health records from about 100,000 people in Israel to see if past viral infections (like Epstein-Barr, COVID-19, or herpes) increase the risk of developing mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. It also looks at whether infections can cause relapses in people who already have a mental illness. Researchers will examine factors like age, sex, and social background that might make someone more vulnerable or resilient.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to

If successful, this could help identify who is most at risk for mental illness after infections and point to protective factors.

What could go wrong

This is an observational study using existing data, so it cannot prove cause and effect. Results may not apply to other populations.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety anxiety disorder bipolar disorder Infections major depressive disorder psychiatric disorder schizophrenia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Haifa

    Haifa, Israel