Herpes I & II Test

Oral & Genital Herpes Test

Tell me about the Herpes Test.

Known as HerpeSelect, this herpes blood test is a serologic type-specific IgG-based assays. Recommended by the CDC, this test looks for antibodies that are specific to the Herpes I virus and the Herpes II virus. An accurate screening involves either a positive culture that has been typed (1 or 2), or a blood test that accurately distinguishes between Herpes types 1 and 2.

What kind of sample is required for the Herpes Test?

One quick blood draw is taken by a trained phlebotomist at the STD Test Center and you'll be on your way.

Any preparation for the Oral Herpes test or Genital Herpes Test?

None.

What do I have to know about the Herpes Test results?

This test looks for antibodies specific to Herpes I and Herpes II (HSV-1 &HSV-2). 70% of American adults have oral herpes or cold sores. If you test positive for HSV-1, it is most likely oral herpes. If you test positive for HSV-2, it is most likely genital herpes.

The tests provide a number result called an "index value." <0.9 indicates a negative result. 0.9 - 1.1 is "equivocal", which means that it's unclear and another test should be run later. This result is rare. An index value above 1.1 is considered positive. Any value between 1.1 and 3.5 can be a "low positive" and could be false. Another test may be indicated.