Frequently Asked Questions

• Who should take a herpes test?

  While testing for herpes virus in the absence of symptoms or known exposure is not currently recommended due to limitations with available tests, testing can be helpful if you have a sex partner with genital herpes, history of genital lesions, or known exposure to HSV.     If you are experiencing symptoms such as sores or blisters in the oral or genital area, it is recommended to contact a healthcare provider for testing for a potential active infection. This test does not detect the virus itself.

• What will the results tell me?

  A positive antibody test indicates exposure to HSV-1 or HSV-2, which means that your immune system has produced antibodies in response to the virus. This test cannot tell you whether or not you are actively shedding virus and does not determine whether the site of the past infection is oral or genital.   A negative result suggests no exposure to the virus. Recent exposures may not be detected as it can take up to 21 days after exposure for antibodies to develop.      It's important to note that false positives and false negatives can occur, which is why it's always recommended to consult a healthcare provider to interpret your results. They can provide context based on your individual health history and any symptoms you may be experiencing. A positive result doesn't define you or your relationships; people with HSV can lead normal, healthy lives with proper management.

• What are the signs and symptoms of herpes?

  Many people with herpes have mild or no symptoms. When symptoms are present, they can include1: Painful blisters or sores on the mouth, genitals, or rectumFeverBody achesSwollen lymph nodesSore throat (oral herpes)Headache   Symptoms can be more severe during the first outbreak and may become less intense or frequent over time.

• Can I test for herpes without an outbreak?

  Yes, this blood test can detect HSV antibodies even without visible symptoms or outbreaks. This blood test detects antibodies to HSV-1 and HSV-2, which your body produces in response to the virus. These antibodies remain in your blood whether or not you're experiencing symptoms. However, it may take several weeks after infection for antibodies to develop and be detectable.

• What are the differences between HSV-1 and HSV-2?

  HSV-1 and HSV-2 are two types of herpes simplex virus, and while they share similarities, there are some key differences1: Location: HSV-1 typically causes oral herpes (cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth), while HSV-2 usually causes genital herpesTransmission: HSV-1 is often transmitted through oral contact, like kissing or sharing utensils, while HSV-2 is primarily spread through sexual contactPrevalence: HSV-1 is more common globally, with many people contracting it in childhoodRecurrence: Genital infections caused by HSV-2 tend to recur more frequently than those caused by HSV-1Symptoms: Both types can cause similar symptoms, including painful blisters or sores   Despite these differences, both types are lifelong infections that can be managed with proper care and treatment.

• Can I live a normal life with HSV?

  Yes, people with HSV can lead normal, healthy lives. While there's no cure, treatments are available to manage symptoms and reduce transmission risk. Understanding your status allows you to take appropriate precautions and make informed decisions about your health and relationships.

• How accurate is this testing?

  Your testing will be performed in a CLIA-certified clinical laboratory. Labcorp provides leading-edge medical laboratory tests and services through a national network of primary clinical laboratories and specialty testing laboratories. Our labs perform regular quality assurance testing to ensure our results are accurate.

• Are my test results private and confidential?

  Your results will be provided to you through our secure online portal to view or print. Results are also made available through a secure portal to the independent healthcare provider who placed your test order.  If you are accessing your results through your Labcorp Patient™ account, all users linked to the account will have access to all OnDemand test results. Results may also be provided to a local, state, and/or federal health authority; for example, many states require the testing laboratory and physician to report test results for certain communicable diseases, such as COVID-19, to local or state health departments.   If you have questions or comments regarding the Labcorp Notice of Privacy Practices, or have a complaint about our use or disclosure of your PHI or our privacy practices, please contact: privacyofficer@labcorp.com, call us at (877) 234-4722 (877-23-HIPAA) and ask for the Labcorp HIPAA Privacy Officer, or send a written request to: HIPAA Privacy Officer, Labcorp, 531 South Spring Street, Burlington, NC 27215. You also may file a complaint with the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

• How does Labcorp OnDemand® work?

  Visit the Labcorp OnDemand® website to browse and purchase laboratory tests and create your Labcorp Patient™ account to view your results. All Labcorp OnDemand testing requires an order from an authorized healthcare professional. For your convenience, Labcorp OnDemand has contracted with independent professional entities (collectively, Providers) to deliver healthcare provider services. Visit a Labcorp location for sample collection; or, if using an at-home collection kit, collect your sample yourself. We’ll let you know when your results are ready and can be accessed through your Labcorp Patient™ account.