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It is important to realize that genital herpes is widespread in the United States. It is estimated that 50 million people have genital herpes. That means that 1 out of 5 adults is infected with the herpes virus. The large majority (almost 90%) of people with genital herpes do not know they are infected with the virus. Often, they have symptoms they don’t recognize or confuse with something else. Others don’t have genital herpes symptoms at all, but the virus may still be active on the surface of their skin and they may still be contagious.
If you suspect or believe that you have been exposed to genital herpes, you should ask your healthcare provider to be tested for the herpes virus. Tests that you get at routine check-ups, such as pap smears, do not test for genital herpes. Even if you have been screened for STDs, don’t assume that a test for genital herpes was included. You should ask for a blood test specifically for genital herpes. The HerpeSelect®* and biokitHSV-2 Rapid Test* are 2 FDA-approved blood tests designed to detect if you have genital herpes (HSV-2).
If you do find out that you are infected with the genital herpes virus, you should recommend to your partner that he or she get tested as well. It is often difficult to know just when you were first infected.
*HerpeSelect is a registered trademark of Focus Diagnostics, Inc. BiokitHSV-2 Rapid Test is manufactured by biokit USA, Inc. GlaxoSmithKline has no financial interest in these manufacturers.
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