Why are people so negative about herpes if they are just cold sores?

Same thing: Cold sores are herpes lesions. But herpes (usually type 2) can occur in the groin and anal areas. Herpes is not curable - it is lifelong. But it can be suppressed. However, people should not feel like this will take over their life or marginalize those with it.

Viral and infectious: Cold sores are viral illnesses and can be transmitted. Herpes is only one type of a virus. You have to be careful because you can transmit this cold sore regardless if it's herpes or not.

Cold sores/herpes: Herpes viruses are characterized by the fact that they never go away once infected: they merely "hide out" until a trigger (stress, bright sunlight, infection, etc) causes them to re-emerge. People don't like cold sore because they are painful & unsightly & can be easily transmitted to others. Meds can suppress the virus but never cure the infection.