This Common Virus Can Hide in Your Body for Decades – Then Return Without Warning

Many people believe that once a childhood illness clears up, it’s gone for good. But certain viruses can actually remain hidden in the body for years – even decades – and later reactivate with little notice. One of the most well-known examples is the herpes simplex virus (HSV), the cause of cold sores around the mouth and lips.

Many people believe that once a childhood illness clears up, it’s gone for good. But certain viruses can actually remain hidden in the body for years – even decades – and later reactivate with little notice. One of the most well-known examples is the herpes simplex virus (HSV), the cause of cold sores around the mouth and lips.