Herpes 1 and 2 Testing: The Essentials

Herpes immediately comes to mind whenever STDs are discussed, and for good reason: it's one of the most widespread diseases out there, with an estimated 16% of Americans aged 14 to 49 carrying the virus. That number increases drastically for major metropolitan areas, especially New York City. As with anything else, knowledge is power where herpes is concerned. This article will get you acquainted with the basics of the disease and then provide an overview of treatment practices and herpes testing options.

The Basic Facts

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is, as the name suggests, a viral disease belonging to the same family as chicken pox and shingles. There are two varieties of Herpes Simplex. Type 1 is more common and usually affects the face and mouth, producing characteristic cold sores during outbreaks. Type 2 usually affects the genitals with painful, itchy sores; this type is what most people mean by herpes and this type concerns us most. Both types cycle between active and remission periods. Visible outbreaks correspond with periods of weakened immune response, becoming less severe and frequent as time goes on. However, most individuals can go weeks, months, or even years without showing any symptoms. Make no mistake: genital herpes is just as contagious when asymptomatic. In fact, this is one of the better reasons to seek an STD clinic for yourself or your partner. While incurable, the disease need not hamper one's intimate relations. Timely and thorough herpes testing is the first step to mitigating the worst of this common STD.

How Testing Works: Viral Cultures

Herpes testing is most accurate within 48 hours of the first outbreak. For this reason, it's important to find a clinic as soon as symptoms appear—your doctor will have a better chance of pinpointing the diagnosis, and you'll have improved treatment options. In these cases, a culture test is administered by swabbing the sore directly. Results usually take one week and can be “typed” to distinguish between the strains (either type can show up anywhere on the body, but Type 2 is most often the culprit in the genitals). Remember that time is of the essence: the longer you wait, the more likely your results will return false negatives due to a lack of active virus. Thankfully, new DNA tests are improving precision, but that's no reason to wait it out or avoid seeing a medical professional.

Blood Tests

Blood tests are available when there is a lack of visible symptoms. This variety of herpes blood test detects antibodies produced by the immune system to signal the presence of the virus. Specifically, it looks for IgG antibodies—these develop soon after initial infection and remain in the blood thereafter. Blood tests can also distinguish by type and are known for being more accurate. Be aware that it takes time for the human body to develop antibodies, and thus the medical community recommends waiting 12 to 16 weeks from the last possible date of exposure to ensure detectable levels. Consult your doctor to find out which herpes blood test is best for you—there are several varieties, each catering to different use patterns, patient characteristics, and results windows.

Alternate Tests

A few alternate methods of herpes testing exist. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests are highly sensitive and superior to viral cultures, but they aren't yet readily available. Expect to see advances in this technology in the near future. Viral antigen tests are accurate only in the initial outbreak and have similar availability problems. Finally, the Tzanck herpes test relies on health care providers' judgment calls, a less rigorous and regulated protocol.

New York City residents, don't hesitate to contact STD Center NY to ask about herpes 2 testing NYC. They offer unrivaled, board-certified medical attention for all of your questions, concerns, or inquiries. Just blocks from Grand Central Station and easily accessible by train or bus, STD Center NY features affordable, private, state-of-the-art herpes testing services. Call 1-212-696-5900 for an appointment or log onto STD testing NYC for more information. Make a commitment to better health!