More than half of US adults are carriers of HSV1 (herpes simplex virus type 1), which has no cure. The study found that herpes has a sneaky strategy for infecting the nervous system. While some carriers will never even experience a cold sore, others can have blindness or even life-threatening encephalitis. There is also increasing evidence that it may contribute to dementia.
Two Types of the Virus
There are two main types of the herpes virus, HSV1 and its close sibling HSV2. Commonly transmitted through sexual contact, HSV2 can be passed from a mother to a newborn during the birthing process, appearing as lesions all over the body up the infant. Most babies recover, but in the worst cases, it can cause brain damage or be lethal. This is why researchers are working towards a desperately needed vaccine.
Sarah Cownley
Author
Sarah has a diploma in Nutritional Therapy from Health Sciences Academy in London, England, and enjoys helping others by teaching healthy lifestyle changes through her personal consultations and with her regular contributions to the Doctors Health Press.
