Duke University researchers say they have discovered how this pesky virus can reactivate itself from a dormant state. That’s when problems such as cold sores and shingles surface.

The report in the journal Nature explains that by figuring out how this virus hides scientists may now be able to find a way to wake it up and then kill if for good.

Herpes viruses makes millions of people miserable, causing cold sores, genital herpes and shingles.