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In order to confirm genital herpes, it is necessary to prove the presence of HSV-1 or HSV-2.
The usual procedure is for the clinician to take a swab from the area affected. A sample of the fluid from a blister or from ulcers is taken and sent away for analysis. The test can identify whether the virus infection is caused by HSV-1 or HSV-2.
Commercial blood tests and over the counter testing kits specific for HSV-1 and HSV-2 antibodies are available but are not recommended for use in the general population as a routine screen. The blood test has many limitations and doesn't necessarily provide information that is helpful in management of the infection. The time taken to develop antibodies is usually 2-6 weeks after infection, but it may be up to 6 months and flase positives and false negatives can occur in these tests. The blood test is also unable to tell you the site of the infection, or how long you have had HSV for. Multiple studies have concluded that blood serology for screening causes more ham than good.
This website is brought to you by the Sexually Transmitted Infections Education Foundation (STIEF) - an initiative funded by Te Whatu Ora.
The medical information in this website is based on the STIEF Guidelines for the Management of Genital Herpes in New Zealand. The New Zealand Ministry of Health supports the use of these clinical guidelines, developed by clinical experts and professional associations to guide clinical care in New Zealand.
The Guidelines are produced by considering available literature, both New Zealand wide and international, and by basing the medical recommendations on the evidence in the literature or reasonable supposition and opinions of medical experts.
NZHF is a registered charitable organisation. Our Charities Commission registration number is CC11276.
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