On the bright side, researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University have discovered a strategy for preventing infections due to herpes simplex viruses (herpes simplex virus 2, the virus that causes genital herpes, and herpes simplex virus 1).

FORBES: For Many, Herpes May Cause Memory Loss Along with Cold Sores

Cantab Pharmaceuticals, a British biotechnology firm, has a genetically engineered vaccine now in clinical trials to protect against herpes simplex infection and reduce the recurrence of genital herpes.

ECONOMIST: Vaccines

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that about 1 in 6 Americans (16.2 percent) between 14 and 49 are infected with herpes simplex virus type 2.

FORBES: For Many, Herpes May Cause Memory Loss Along with Cold Sores