There is a potential link between Alzheimer's disease and the herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), which is a common cause for cold sores, a recent study suggests

The oral herpes virus appears to be linked with Alzheimer’s disease, suggesting that the common infection might play a role in the disease, a new study published in the journal Cell Reports says. Herpes simplex virus 1 -- the virus behind oral herpes -- appears to trigger the appearance of tau protein in the brain, researchers say.

Repeated head injuries suffered by sports players and military personnel — a known risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease — may induce dementia by reactivating the dormant herpes virus in neural tissues, according to laboratory experiments.

Scientists from the University of Pittsburgh have uncovered a surprising connection between Alzheimer's disease and the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Their study suggests that viral infections might contribute to the development of this condition.

Scientists from the University of Pittsburgh have discovered a surprising connection between Alzheimer's disease and the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Their study suggests that viral infections may play a role in developing this condition.