DSC Clinic - Department of STI Control Singapore

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Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). When a person presents with symptoms like a sore or blister on their genital, a gentle swab will be taken on the affected areas. The swab will be sent to the laboratory for a culture test.

However, not everyone who has genital herpes will develop a blister or a sore. Sometimes, a person may visit the doctor when their blister or sore has already healed. In such occasions, the doctor may order a test called “Type Specific HSV Serology”. Your blood will be collected and sent to the laboratory for testing.

Therefore, this test can confirm a genital herpes diagnosis and identify asymptomatic persons.

Some key notes about HSV:

• HSV type 1 usually causes cold sores. These infections are common during early childhood. About 50% of adults have evidence of previous infection with this virus.
• Majority of the genital herpes infections are caused by HSV type 2.
• As more people perform oral sex, HSV type 1 genital infection is increasing.
• It may take 6 to 8 weeks from the time of exposure before the HSV can be picked up through laboratory testing.​​