Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Types 1 & 2

What is Herpes?

The HSV, otherwise known as the herpes simplex virus, is an infection that causes herpes. This virus can appear in many parts of the body like the mouth and genitals. It is categorized into two types: the herpes type 1 (HSV-1) and the herpes type 2 (HSV-2). The first type is the most commonly found type and leads to cold sores and blisters around the mouth. The second type is called the genital herpes that consists of sores developing in the genital and rectum area. Sometimes, the herpes type 1 can lead to genital herpes. Both herpes viruses are highly contagious and can spread easily from a person to another.

The type-1 herpes can be contracted by eating from the same utensils, sharing lip balm/lipsticks, or kissing an infected person. When a person is experiencing outbreaks, this makes it easier to pass on the virus. Studies indicate that more than 67% of adults who are older than 49 years of age will test positive for HSV-1. People who have a cold sore and performs oral sex can spread the HSV-1 to the genitals of his or her partner. The type-2 herpes is usually the result of having unprotected sex with an infected person. The American Academy of Dermatology explains that 20% of adults living in the USA have herpes-2. The difference between these two types of herpes is that those infected with type-1 can spread the virus even if they are asymptomatic; while it takes a contact with a herpes sore to spread the HSV-2.

The herpes simplex antibody test measures the amount of proteins released by the immune system as a response to a herpes exposure. These proteins are called antibodies and they come in two main classes. At the beginning of the infection, the body produces IgM antibodies for a few days post-infection. These types of antibodies remain detectable in the system for a few weeks. The second step consists of releasing the IgG antibodies.

The American Sexual Health Association explains that fifty percent of adult living in the USA have herpes 1 and 17% have herpes type-2. While symptoms may be misleading, it is estimated that ninety percent of those who have herpes type-2, don’t even know that they have it. While lesions appear normally about two weeks after exposure to the virus, they normally heal within two to four weeks. But, in some cases, these lesions are barely noticeable and can even be mistaken with inset bites or rash. When the lesions disappear, the person will go into a period called a “latent stage”. This is when the virus is dormant. When the person becomes ill or stressed, the virus will get reactivated.

Why take the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Types 1 and 2 test?

The herpes test can help screen and detect the herpes simplex virus. It helps measuring the antibodies of HSV to look for a past herpes virus exposure. The HSV antibody test can also detect an acute herpes simplex infection by taking samples a few weeks apart.

Anyone, who is sexually active, needs to take the herpes test to make sure of their status. Some behaviors are considered to be high risk for a contamination. These include having many partners, initiating sex at a young age, being a woman, having other kinds of sexually transmitted infections, and having a weak immune system.

Women who are pregnant need to be tested for this STD. If a genital herpes outbreak happens during childbirth, it may expose the baby to both types of herpes and put him or her at high risks of being infected.

If you have any of the symptoms associated with a herpes infection; then, you need to be screened for this virus. These include having blisters and sores around the mouth and genitals as well as feeling a burning sensation when urinating and itching. Some also experience flu-like symptoms like fever, enlarged lymph nodes, headaches, tiredness, lack of appetite, and eye pain. When the infection spreads to the eye, it causes herpes keratitis.

What can cause the levels to rise?

There is no evidence that any medication, supplement, or vitamin can cause any effect on the herpes test results.

What your Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Types 1 and 2 test results mean?

Analyzing the results of this test can be tricky. If the IgG antibody test is positive, it indicates that you have been infected previously with either herpes types.

When two samples are taken (acute and convalescent samples), you can compare the results. If the levels of IgG HSV increased; this indicates that you have an active or recent infection. In case the HSV antibody test results came in negative; then, this either means that you have not been infected with the herpes virus or that you have been infected but you got tested way too early for the antibodies to be detected in a blood test.

While herpes is the most dangerous viral infection among newborn babies, it can make adults more prone to get infected with HIV. It can also boost the viral load of HIV positive individuals.

If you were tested positive for any type of herpes, you need to know that this viral infection cannot be cured. It is rather managed. Taking the right medications can help prevent future herpes outbreaks; as well as, shorten the duration how’s the present outbreak. There’s a new medicine that has been surfacing in the market. It is a daily medicine that can help prevent outbreaks and lower the risk of passing the virus to others. Individuals who are infected need to share their status with their partners and adopt preventative measures during sex.

Where can I get a Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Types 1 and 2 test near me?

Please use our Lab Locator to find find a convenient testing location.

Reviewed By: Dr. Kurt Kloss, MD
Last Reviewed Date: Jun 01, 2022