Viral infection

Herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2) testing at home

Yes. LabX tests for Herpes on a urine sample, starting at $149 with the At-Home STI Panel β€” 10-target urine PCR. Our urine STI panel tests for HSV-1 and HSV-2 DNA by PCR. This detects virus being shed into the urine at the time of collection. A negative result does not rule out herpes, because the virus is not always shed. The panel does not include herpes antibody (blood) testing, which is a different test that looks for past infection.

What is Herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2)?

Genital herpes is caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or type 2 (HSV-2). HSV-1 is also the usual cause of cold sores. After infection the virus stays in the body and can become active again from time to time.

Symptoms

Many people with herpes have no symptoms or very mild symptoms they do not recognize. When outbreaks happen they can include blisters or sores. The virus can be passed on even when no sores are visible. If you have symptoms, see a licensed physician β€” a test result is not a diagnosis.

Why testing matters

There is no cure for herpes, but a clinician can prescribe treatment that reduces outbreaks and the chance of passing the virus on. Knowing your status helps you and your partners make informed decisions.

How LabX tests for Herpes

Our urine STI panel tests for HSV-1 and HSV-2 DNA by PCR. This detects virus being shed into the urine at the time of collection. A negative result does not rule out herpes, because the virus is not always shed. The panel does not include herpes antibody (blood) testing, which is a different test that looks for past infection. Samples are tested at LabX Diagnostic Systems, a CLIA-certified, COLA-accredited laboratory in Tampa, Florida. Results are typically reported in 2–3 business days from receipt.

Timing

If you have sores or symptoms, see a licensed physician, who can test a sore directly or discuss antibody testing. A single negative urine PCR is not enough to rule herpes out.

Panels that include Herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2)

LabX STI panels do not include HIV testing. For an HIV test, ask your provider or visit gettested.cdc.gov.

If your result is reactive

A reactive result is not a diagnosis. For blood tests, the laboratory confirms a reactive screen on a second, different method before reporting it. If a result is reactive, contact a licensed clinician β€” this laboratory does not treat or prescribe β€” tell recent partners, and know that, like every clinical laboratory, LabX is required by law to report positive results for these notifiable infections to the state health department confidentially. If you are unwell, pregnant or in severe pain, seek care right away.

Common questions

Can I test for Herpes at home?

Yes. LabX tests for Herpes on a urine sample, starting at $149 with the At-Home STI Panel β€” 10-target urine PCR. Our urine STI panel tests for HSV-1 and HSV-2 DNA by PCR. This detects virus being shed into the urine at the time of collection. A negative result does not rule out herpes, because the virus is not always shed. The panel does not include herpes antibody (blood) testing, which is a different test that looks for past infection.

Does Herpes always cause symptoms?

Many people with herpes have no symptoms or very mild symptoms they do not recognize. When outbreaks happen they can include blisters or sores. The virus can be passed on even when no sores are visible.

What sample does the Herpes test use?

Our urine STI panel tests for HSV-1 and HSV-2 DNA by PCR. This detects virus being shed into the urine at the time of collection. A negative result does not rule out herpes, because the virus is not always shed. The panel does not include herpes antibody (blood) testing, which is a different test that looks for past infection.

What if my Herpes result is positive or reactive?

A reactive result is not a diagnosis. For blood tests, the laboratory confirms a reactive screen on a second, different method before reporting it. If a result is reactive, contact a licensed clinician β€” this laboratory does not treat or prescribe β€” tell recent partners, and know that, like every clinical laboratory, LabX is required by law to report positive results for these notifiable infections to the state health department confidentially. If you are unwell, pregnant or in severe pain, seek care right away.

Should I test again later?

If you have sores or symptoms, see a licensed physician, who can test a sore directly or discuss antibody testing. A single negative urine PCR is not enough to rule herpes out.

Related infections

Terms: NAAT Β· reactive result Β· window period Β· notifiable condition. More: all STI tests Β· LabX answers.

Order a panel that tests for Herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2)

At-home drug tests and test kits are not currently available to addresses in New York, New Jersey, Rhode Island or California. Results are not a diagnosis β€” review them with a licensed physician.

At-Home STI Panel β€” 10-target urine PCR β€” $149 Complete STI Panel β€” urine + blood β€” $299

Talk to a licensed physician. LabX Diagnostics and Vantage provide laboratory testing only. The information on this page is educational and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a licensed physician or other qualified healthcare provider about test results, symptoms or medicines, and before making any health decision. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911. Read our medical disclaimer.

Medical disclaimer. LabX Diagnostics and Vantage provide laboratory testing only. Test results and information on this site are for informational purposes and are not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a licensed physician or other qualified healthcare provider about your results and before making any health decision. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911. Read the full disclaimer.

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