Scientists continue to study herpes to gain information about causes, treatment and prevention of the disease.

Some of the most current research is focused on the following areas:

• Existing drugs. A number of studies and clinical trials are attempting to determine the best way to use existing drugs.
  
  
• Biology of the virus. Scientists are studying the biology of the herpes virus, including the genes and enzymes that the virus depends on. This may potentially lead to the development of more effective treatment methods.   
  
  
• Vaccines and microbicides. Some research is aimed at developing vaccines and topical microbicides (microbe-killing gels, creams or lotions) to control transmission of the virus.