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Real members of MyMSTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

POSITIVE JC VIRUS

A MyMSTeam Member asked a question 💭
Cincinnati, OH

Last week my blood test showed a positive for the JC VIRUS. I was on Tysabri for 2 years but haven’t been on it now since 2017. I started Ocrevus in the fall of 2019 and have had 2 treatments with the 3rd one to be given in September. Wondering if any one else has gotten a positive JC VIRUS and what was done? My neurologist has scheduled an MRI for this week and said after she sees those results will decide how to proceed.

August 2, 2020
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A MyMSTeam Member

Hi! I am JCV positive. I was taking Tecfidera for about 3 years. My white and lymphocyte counts kept dropping too low, I’d stop meds for a bit, they’d come back up, and drop again. My neuro said I could potentially stay on Tecfidera if I was JCV negative but wanted to take me off if I was positive. I believe the reason is that there is a greater risk for developing PML if you are JCV positive. I switched to Plegridy in March. It’s been fine aside from injection site red patches that last for a few weeks.

August 3, 2020
A MyMSTeam Member

I was told Tysabri was not an option due to positivity. I chose Gilenya and now take Retuximab. Ocrevus is super similar, if not the same drug re-patented. There's nothing to do. It is what it is and by what I read, its a virus you are exposed to as early as childhood. It remains dormant for awhile. It scared me alot..but now after 3 yrs, I rarely think of it.

August 3, 2020
A MyMSTeam Member

I'm inclined to ask your doctor what your risks are for continuing treatment whether it was Tsysabri or Ocrevus. I think I opened a conversation with my then neuro but was never given a final answer. I've read how the virus caused death on some patients but the ones I read about were in Europe and had other medical issues other than MS. I'm not arguing with science but I am just curious.

August 3, 2020
MyMSTeam

A positive JC virus test result can be concerning, especially for those with multiple sclerosis (MS). Here are some key points from the knowledge base:

- JC Virus and MS: The JC virus is common, and most people have been exposed to it. However, it can become problematic if the immune system is compromised, such as when Show Full Answer

A positive JC virus test result can be concerning, especially for those with multiple sclerosis (MS). Here are some key points from the knowledge base:

- JC Virus and MS: The JC virus is common, and most people have been exposed to it. However, it can become problematic if the immune system is compromised, such as when taking immunosuppressants for MS.
- Risk of PML: If the JC virus crosses the blood-brain barrier, it can cause progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a dangerous brain infection.
- Monitoring: Doctors often recommend regular blood tests to monitor JC virus antibody levels, especially if you are on immune-suppressing medications like Tysabri (natalizumab).
- Treatment Decisions: Some people with MS choose to avoid medications that increase the risk of PML, while others, under careful medical supervision, continue with treatments like Tysabri if it is effective for them.
- Support and Options: There are many treatment options available today, and it’s important to discuss with your doctor to weigh the risks and benefits. MyMSTeam members often support each other through these decisions.

Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your treatment plan.

July 12, 2024
A MyMSTeam Member

Hilhutch: is Ocrevus similar to Tysabri? So with your positive JC Virus, do they just check you but haven’t done anything about it?

August 3, 2020

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