Herpes Type 1 and Type 2 Testing

Kissing, sexual contact, oral secretions, sharing personal objects such as toothbrushes, and direct contact with herpes sores are all common ways for HSV-1 to spread. HSV-2 is rarely transmitted through means other than sex and direct contact with herpes-positive genitals. Herpes patients frequently do not exhibit symptoms at first. It can take weeks, months, or even years for symptoms to appear, allowing the virus to spread. Though it is critical to always practice safe sex, herpes can be transmitted even when protection is used. This is why it’s critical to have an open and honest conversation about your partner’s status, to be aware of the symptoms to look out for, and to understand that herpes can be contracted even when no symptoms are present.

A blood sample is required for the herpes type 1 and 2 (IgG) type-specific antibody test. This type of testing is the most accurate and dependable option.

Prior to testing, no preparation is required, including fasting or appointments.

If you are experiencing symptoms, get tested right away! If you are not experiencing symptoms, our clinicians recommend waiting at least four weeks after potential herpes virus exposure before getting tested to ensure greater accuracy.

Your herpes antibody concentration in your blood determines whether your results are positive, negative, or indeterminate. A negative result indicates that there were insufficient herpes antibodies in a blood sample for you to be considered herpes positive. A positive result indicates that you have a significant amount of antibodies against one or both strains of herpes in your blood. It is possible to have both types of herpes at the same time. Those who test negative should retest in three months to confirm a negative diagnosis.

Herpes, regardless of type, cannot be cured. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, antiviral medications can help you manage them. These drugs do not cure the virus, but they can help control outbreaks, reduce the severity of symptoms, and lower your chances of spreading the virus to others. It’s important to note that most herpes-positive people live perfectly normal and happy lives, with little interference from the virus. Herpes is extremely common; the World Health Organization estimates that up to 67 percent of the world’s population has HSV; however, this figure could be even higher because most healthcare professionals do not test for the virus unless specifically requested.