SCIENTISTS reveal herpes warning as the virus could lead to dementia through a common sex act.

A team at the University of Chicago have discovered if the virus is spread to the nose, in theory, inflammation could lead to more severe complications.

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The herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), the virus that causes cold sores, tend to break out around the mouth but more people are getting diagnosed with HSV-1 around their genitalia.

With the main cause of transmission being skin contact, this means those engaging in oral sex with an infected person could be at risk of inhaling the virus in their nose.

When HSV-1 flares up it can cause blisters and sores that produce highly contagious fluid.

If one person has their nose close to an active sore – whether this is by pleasuring your partner down south or even kissing someone with a cold sore – the virus can get in contact with your nose.

The University of Chicago‘s Professor Deepak Shukla, who led the research, said there is an enzyme in the human body that could have damaging effects on those affected by HSV-1.

Heparanase (HPSE) is a regular enzyme in humans and other mammals which breaks down sugar-like molecules.

If someone is diagnosed with HSV-1, the herpes virus hijacks HPSE and causes it to swell and might prompt inflammation.

For the 3.8billion people under age 50 who carry HSV-1, 64 per cent of that age range, this won’t cause any issues.

However the infection somehow reaches the brain HSV-1 could potentially cause encephalitis, a brain inflammation, and possibly contribute to conditions like Alzheimer’s.

Herpes is a very common infection and is easily manageable with anti-viral medication, but it’s still easily transmittable and should be taken seriously.

The best way to protect yourself and others against herpes is by practising safe sex, avoiding contact during outbreaks, and communicating clearly with sexual partners.

Cases where HSV-1 infects the brain, causing encephalitis, are rare but Dr. Shukla believes the number of nasal herpes cases is higher than currently reported.

There are two to four cases of nasal herpes for every million people with the virus.

Shukla’s team discovered the findings by observing mice which were infected nasally with HSV-1.

The animals with normal levels of HPSE were affected by more serious herpes infections, had worse symptoms, and had a shorter life span.

They showed behavioural changes including memory loss, anxiety, and loss of balance while walking.

Scientists also conducted an autopsy and discovered the nasally infected mice had more dead cells in their brains.

Shukla noted in a statement: “There is definitely nerve damage if you take the intranasal route, and the effects are long-term, which is alarming.

“Our findings serve as a warning that unchecked herpes can lead to significant behavioural abnormalities, motor function issues, and coordination problems over time.”

Scientists warn to keep an eye out for symptoms like fever and a headache s these, if left untreated, can transform into more serious injuries like seizures, hallucinations, and even coma.

For individuals concerned about whether they may have contracted herpes, if you have blisters, sores, or swelling around your mouth or genitalia it’s best to consult a sexual health practitioner.

The primary outbreak is often the most extreme and there are safe ways to have sex after being diagnosed.