Herpes Type 1 and Type 2 Testing

How Did I Get Herpes Simplex Virus?

HSV-1 is often transmitted through kissing, sexual contact, oral secretions, sharing personal objects like toothbrushes, and direct contact with herpes sores. HSV-2 is seldom spread in ways other than sex and direct contact with genitals of someone who is herpes-positive. Those who have herpes often do not display symptoms at first. It can take weeks, months, or even years before symptoms appear, which aids the virus in spreading.

Though it’s important to always practice safe sex, herpes can occasionally be transmitted even when using protection. This is why it’s important to have an open and honest conversation with your partner about their 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.

Do You Use a Blood or Urine Sample to Test for Herpes?

The herpes type 1 and 2 (IgG) type-specific antibody test requires a blood sample to be taken. This type of testing is the most accurate and reliable option available.

How do I Prepare to Test for Herpes Simplex Virus?

No preparation is necessary prior to testing, including fasting or appointments.

When Should I Test for HSV-1 & HSV-2?

If you’re experiencing symptoms, get tested immediately! If you’re not experiencing symptoms, our doctors recommend waiting at least four weeks after potential exposure to the herpes virus before getting tested to ensure higher accuracy.

Herpes Test Results Explained

The concentration of herpes antibodies in your blood determines if your results are positive, negative, or indeterminate. Both types of herpes use the same reference interval, which is the accepted range of what is a high a low concentration of herpes antibodies. This reference interval is .89 IV or less: herpes not detected; .90-1.09 IV: Indeterminate; and 1.10 IV or more: herpes detected. An indeterminate result means there is a questionable amount of antibodies in your blood, and that you should get retested in two weeks to see if this number rises.

A negative result indicates there were not enough herpes antibodies in a blood sample for you to be considered positive for herpes. A positive result indicates that a significant amount of antibodies for either one or both strains of herpes were found in your blood. It is possible to test positive for both types of herpes at the same time.

Those who test negative should consider retesting in 3 months, to confirm a negative diagnosis.

Can HSV-1 & HSV-2 be cured or treated?

Herpes cannot be cured, regardless of type. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, it is possible to manage them through the use of antiviral drugs. These drugs do not rid the body of the virus, but they can help control outbreaks, reduce the intensity of symptoms, and they reduce your chances of transmitting the virus to others.

It’s important to note that most herpes-positive individuals live perfectly normal and happy lives, without the virus causing much disruption. Herpes is extremely common; the World Health Organization states that as much 67 percent of the world population has HSV, this percentage may be even higher, as most healthcare professionals do not check for the virus unless it is requested.