STDcheck.com offers a type-specific blood tests for both herpes type 1 and herpes type 2. These tests look for antibodies to HSV-1 and HSV-2 in your blood. Although HSV-2, the virus that most commonly causes genital herpes, can be detected as early as 3 weeks after possible exposure, our doctors recommend waiting 4-6 weeks before getting tested.
After 3 months post-exposure to the virus, getting tested again is advised to eliminate the possibility of a recurrent infection. We test for Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) in the blood using the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) test. This type-specific HSV-1 blood test looks for antibodies to the HSV-1 virus in the bloodstream.
This test is highly sensitive and will only detect the presence of HSV-1 antibodies. Since 20% of oral herpes cases are caused by the HSV-2 virus, we recommend ordering both the HSV-1 test and HSV-2 test.
To begin, simply order the herpes tests (HSV-1 test and HSV-2 test), then visit any of our 4,500+ test centers. A small sample of your blood will be collected for testing and you will receive an email with your results in 1-2 days. Your results will read as either positive (HSV-1 and/or HSV-2 was found in your blood) or negative (no HSV-1 and/or HSV-2 virus was found in your blood).