Herpes 1&2 IgM Test

Known As: Herpes Simplex Virus 1&2 Recent Exposure, HSV Type 1 & Type 2 IgM.

Description: Through a blood sample, this herpes test is used to determine an acute infection. The IgM antibody production usually starts a few days after the initial infection. The Herpes IgM test is non-type specific, it does not differentiate between HSV 1 and HSV 2. The HSV IgM test may have cross reactivity, which could lead to a false positive, with prior herpes infections or other strains of herpes virus like Mono. Due to the limitations of the HSV IgM test, a person may only want to consider using this test if they are trying to determine whether or not they are experiencing a "Primary Episode" of a herpes infection or if they are attempting to track the possible "source" or "timeline" of the infection. Turnaround time is typically 1-3 business days.

Incubation Period: Average incubation period for the HSV IgM test ranges from about 5 days-5 weeks. After a few months from the initial infection, a person usually begins to "phase out" and is no longer detectable with this test.

Early detection is important so that treatment may begin as soon as possible and assist with delaying the onset of serious complications. In addition, knowing your status will enable you to take the necessary steps in preventing the transmission of Herpes to others.

Requirements: This is a blood test. No special requirements for testing.