Cold sores may play role in Alzheimer’s development, new research reveals

Cold sores may play role in Alzheimer’s development, new research reveals

Those with HSV-1, the virus behind cold sores, more likely to have common dementia, study finds

The analysis places "an even greater emphasis on viewing the prevention of herpes viruses as a public health priority," the researchers said in a press release. (iStock)

Of the groups studied, 1,507 people with Alzheimer’s also had HSV-1, but only 823 people in the control group had HSV-1. (iStock)

How exactly HSV-1 and similar viruses could heighten dementia risk isn’t clear, the researchers note. (iStock)

While an estimated two-thirds of people under 50 are infected with HSV-1, data on symptomatic infections is limited, "as manifestations can be mild or unnoticed," the researchers said. (iStock)