what does hsv culture without typing mean what does hsv culture without typing mean

There are two main types of HSV: Herpes is spread through direct contact with sores. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Differentiation of HSV-1 and HSV-2 Infections. HSV1 is more common. It is also possible that you have inadvertently deleted your document root or the your account may need to be recreated. Soon after, the blisters will rupture, leaving painful ulcers that ooze, crust over, and eventually heal within two to four weeks. Diagnosing genital herpes can be challenging. A lab then checks the sample for the herpes virus. HSV can also cause meningitis. The herpes simplex virus, also known as HSV, is a viral infection that causes genital and oral herpes. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Health Encyclopedia: Herpes Simplex Virus Antibody; [cited 2018 Jun 13]; [about 2 screens]. 2021 Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings and Lexi-Comp Inc. All Rights Reserved. Research suggests that around 87% of people with HSV-2 under the age of 50 have never been diagnosed. Talk with your healthcare provider. Sex Transm Dis, 2013;40(11):860-4. doi:10.1097/OLQ.0000000000000043, Looker KJ, Elmes JAR, Gottlieb SL, et al. medicines that don't need a prescription and any illegal drugs you may use. The risks of the herpes viral culture of lesion test are minimal. Fanfair RN, Zaidi A, Taylor LD, Xu F, Gottlieb S, Markowitz L. Trends in seroprevalence of herpes simplex virus type 2 among non-Hispanic blacks and non-Hispanic whites aged 14 to 49 years--United States, 1988 to 2010. Studies have shown a >98% detection of HSV DNAin CSF by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and this method is now considered the standard for diagnosis of HSV encephalitis. However, HSV PCR, with its consistently and substantially higher rate of HSV detection, will likely replace viral culture as the gold standard for the diagnosis of genital herpes in people with active mucocutaneous lesions, regardless of anatomic location or viral type. They may choose tests based on several factors (e.g., number of sex partners, if you had an STI before, etc.). Each type of HSV causes a number of health problems. Test your website to make sure your changes were successfully saved. That means after your first outbreak of sores clears up, you may get another outbreak in the future. This test looks for which type of herpes simplex virus (HSV) is causing your infection. HSV2 affects the genitals and is spread by sexual contact. This means that you dont have an active herpes infection at the site where the culture was taken. ELVIS HSV was developed using a transgenic baby hamster kidney-21 cell line. Genital herpes CDC fact sheet (detailed). Available from: UW Health [Internet]. Specimen is best collected within the first three days following the appearance of a lesion but no more than seven days. After collection, remove cap from the transport media tube and insert swab aseptically into transport tube and break swab shaft. 2017 Dec;17(12):13036. the protective membranes covering the brain. /index.php [L] All rights reserved. Cookies used to track the effectiveness of CDC public health campaigns through clickthrough data. They can also reduce the risk of outbreaks in people with recurrence and reduce the risk of passing the virus to others. NIH also maintains a database with information aboutclinical trials around the world. Cultures positive by ELVIS are confirmed by immunofluorescent staining. We take your privacy seriously. HSV-1 is the main cause of conditions like cold sores and fever blisters. Eine andere -Site. Most people who have HSV-1 or HSV-2 don't have symptoms. It is caused by HSV-2 and, increasingly, by HSV-1. testing to when the result is released to the ordering provider. It is possible that you may need to edit the .htaccess file at some point, for various reasons.This section covers how to edit the file in cPanel, but not what may need to be changed. If sores have started to heal, they may be less likely to have Clearly, this can be difficult during your first outbreak, given that you probably won't be expecting it. Herpes simplex type 1 (HSV-1) is a related virus more commonly linked to oral herpes (a.k.a. 4-16-2015 . 1. The herpes viral culture of lesion test, also known as the herpes simplex virus culture, is a laboratory test thats used to determine if a skin sore contains the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Myth #3: Your sex life is over. (2014). Your test results may be different depending on the lab used. Learn more about the link between genital herpes and HIV in this fact sheet. Genital Pimples vs. Specify the exact specimen source/origin (eg, genital lesion). The traditional rule of thumb is that the treatment of genital herpesin the form of oral antiviral drugsshould begin within 72 hours of the first appearance of lesions. Each type of HSV causes Genital Herpes Screening FAQ. Herpes sores can also develop on the hands and . If you are sexually active, you can reduce your risk of infection by. But you may need an HSV test if: HSV-2 may increase your risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). They are often preceded by genital pain or shooting pain in the legs, hip, or buttocks several hours or days before the attack. The easiest way to edit a .htaccess file for most people is through the File Manager in cPanel. If your lesion is located in your throat or eye, a sterilized swab must be used for sample collection. Viral, Chlamydia, or Mycoplasma culture transport provided by LabCorp, or other appropriate transport medium (for swabs); body fluids and tissue samples may be submitted in viral transport media or in a sterile leakproof container. What does the CDC say about who to test? This is why its important to talk openly and honestly with your provider during your visit. You can opt-out at any time. The swab can be used for one or several different tests, including: There also are blood tests that can diagnose HSV based on proteins called immunoglobulins (antibodies) produced by the immune system in response to the virus. For HSV PCR testing, please request test 138651. In fact, the tests that use these samples work best. infection. Get the details on key signs, diagnosis, and, It takes some time after contracting herpes simplex virus (HSV) for symptoms to show. Available from: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [Internet]. Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 infections are more commonly seen in association with the genitalia, and surrounding areas, and are . Submit one specimen per test requested. As the blisters begin to rupture, they turn into open sores that can bleed or ooze a whitish fluid. meaning that no HSV was found in your sample. ELVIS HSV was developed using a transgenic baby hamster kidney-21 cell line. Cultures positive by ELVIS are confirmed by immunofluorescent staining. If this blood test is positive, but you do not have any known genital herpes outbreaks, did not have a positive culture test, and did not have a sulfur hair growth redditOverview Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Permission is granted in perpetuity, without payment of license fees or royalties, to use, copy, or distribute the LOINC codes for any commercial or non-commercial purpose, subject to the terms under the license agreement found at https://loinc.org/license/. Specify the exact specimen source/origin (eg, genital lesion). Your healthcare provider will collect the sample by gently pressing a soft swab into Available from: University of Rochester Medical Center [Internet]. These tests have limits. However, for people who are severely immunocompromised, such as those with advanced human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), HSV-2 can cause rare but serious complications like aseptic meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain). Before you do anything, it is suggested that you backup your website so that you can revert back to a previous version if something goes wrong. All Rights Reserved. The best way to prevent genital herpes or another STD is to not have sex. Caut aici. When you encounter a 404 error in WordPress, you have two options for correcting it. Kenilworth (NJ): Merck & Co. Inc.; c2018. buttocks, around the eyes, and across large areas of the body. RewriteRule . If you had a lumbar puncture, you may have pain or tenderness in your back where the needle was inserted. painful, fluid-filled blisters that burst before crusting over to form a cold sore, usually around the mouth, genitals, and anus. Genital herpes guide:risk factors and clinical manifestations. allowed for additional confirmatory or additional reflex tests. (2014). Put the custom structure back if you had one. Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a prevalent, easily transmissible virus that causes lifelong viral infection. HSV was found in your sample. Herpes blood tests may or may not be part of the tests your healthcare provider gives you. Although oral and genital herpes can be uncomfortable, the viruses usually don't cause any major health problems. People with symptoms can have one or more blisters on or around the genitals, rectum, or mouth. Herpes Simplex Virus Infections; [cited 2018 Jun 13]; [about 2 screens]. Symptoms That's likely due to other factors related to how much virus there is in the sores. In some cases, additional time should be . Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health. University of Florida; c2018. Be sure your healthcare provider knows If symptoms do show up, you might first feel tingling or burning near your genitals. That means theres a higher chance the test could say you dont have herpes when you really do. James Myhre is an American journalist and HIV educator. For most couples, herpes isnt a huge deal. Herpes viral culture of a lesion is a laboratory test to check if a skin sore is infected with the herpes virus. Infectious HSV is rarely present in CSF during encephalitis, resulting in a poor recovery by culture (5% in adults, 5% in adults, Herpes simplex viruses. Testing schedules may vary. Herpes simplex is a widely spread virus that affects millions of people all around the globe. The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. An equivocal test result means that the test was unable to determine whether or not there was an antibody present. Details about current research efforts can be found on theNIAID website. one or more sores, or placing the swab on the tip of the penis or in the vagina. Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is the virus most commonly linked to genital herpes, a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that causes painful blisters and ulcers on the penis, vagina, or rectum. Herpes genitalis: diagnosis, treatment and prevention. Bacterial swab specimen; specimen received in grossly leaking transport container; dry specimen; specimen submitted in fixative or additive; specimen received in expired transport media or incorrect transport device; inappropriate specimen transport conditions; specimen stored or transported greater than seven days refrigerated; specimen stored or transported at room temperature; wooden shaft swab in transport device; unlabeled specimen or name discrepancy between specimen and test request label. The herpes viral culture of lesion test, also known as the herpes simplex virus culture, is a laboratory test that's used to determine if a skin sore contains the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 infection are usually found above the waist. HSV1 can cause genital outbreaks, too, often from oral sex. You may need to scroll to find it. See the Section on 404 errors after clicking a link in WordPress. Your provider will withdraw a small amount of cerebrospinal fluid for testing. Lancet Infect Dis. This is because of the limits of a herpes blood test and the possibility of a wrong test result. You may be at higher risk if you: In rare cases, HSV can cause encephalitis or meningitis, life-threatening infections of the brain and spinal cord. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Its caused by two different viruses called herpes simplex type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex type 2 (HSV-2). Not everyone with HSV-2 has symptoms or is even aware that they've been infected. The LOINC codes are copyright 1994-2021, Regenstrief Institute, Inc. and the Logical Observation Identifiers Names and Codes (LOINC) Committee. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; c19982018. J R Soc Interface. For HSV PCR testing, please request . You get genital herpes by having sex -- vaginal, oral, or anal -- with someone who already has it. For example, the virus can be life-threatening when its present in children, in people with compromised immune systems, or in people with HSV infections of the eye. Arvin AM, Prober CG. Government of Canada. Circumcision is generally electively performed, most commonly . Treatment involves antiviral drugs, either taken when needed to treat acute episodes or taken daily to reduce the frequency of outbreaks. Talk to your doctor about getting tested. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 are recurring infections. and spinal cord. This test looks for which type of herpes simplex virus (HSV) is causing your infection. The two categories of antibody tests used to detect HSV are: Certain IgG blood tests can also tell you whether you have HSV-1 or HSV-2. [1] Most commonly, viral replication occurs in epithelial tissue and establishes dormancy in sensory neurons, reactivating periodically as localized recurrent lesions. In this example the file must be in public_html/example/Example/. Available from: Merck Manual Consumer Version [Internet]. You may also get a headache after the procedure. These risks are associated with any type of procedure that requires scraping of the skin and include: Results of the herpes viral culture of lesion test are based on whether or not the virus grows from your skin sample in a laboratory. This includes talking about medications that help with symptoms. When an outbreak is about to occur, people will often experience prodromal (precursor) symptoms such as tingling, itching, or burning around the area where the sores are about to appear. a number of health problems. Recurrent herpes simplex labialis is a condition of the mouth caused by the herpes simplex virus. what does hsv culture without typing mean ab3e lewis structure naples florida mobile homes for sale zillow what does hsv culture without typing mean. hospital valet job description what does hsv culture without typing mean Symptoms of genital HSV-2 infections can develop within two to 12 days of exposure. There are situations in which the virus poses a significant health threat. How accurate is the "typing" in a HSV culture test? Over a period of several days, the sores will begin to crust over and heal. Of the two, I had tested positive for genital herpes, HSV-2 with an index value of 2.0 (Any index value above 1.1 is considered positive). Specimen is best collected within the first three days after appearance of lesion but no more than seven days. It is free to join and allows people with STIs a safe space to post questions and seek advice from others who fully understand what they are going through. what does hsv culture without typing mean doi:10.1016/S1473-3099(17)30405-X. You may also need this test if you have symptoms of encephalitis, or brain inflammation. The WHO is reporting a rare outbreak of the Marburg virus. For more information, please view the literature below. Testing Options to Support Diagnosis and Screening of Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), Vesicular fluid, ulcerated lesions, pharyngeal and throat swabs, urine, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), autopsy and biopsy material, eye exudates, vaginal swabs, Swab in viral transport media, 1 mL fluid, 0.5 g tissue in transport medium. If not, correct the error or revert back to the previous version until your site works again. HSV causes painful blisters or sores in different parts of the body. While there is no cure for herpes, it hardly ever causes serious health problems. Madison (WI): University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority; c2018. For HSV PCR testing, please request test 138651. Viral culture is the best test to confirm a herpes simplex infection. The .htaccess file contains directives (instructions) that tell the server how to behave in certain scenarios and directly affect how your website functions. what does hsv culture without typing meanjohn hopkins psychedelic research volunteer. RewriteCond %{REQUEST_FILENAME} !-d 2023 Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings. June 16, 2022 . HSV2 affects the genitals and is spread by sexual contact. Health experts provide answers to frequently asked questions about the bird flu outbreak and the danger it poses to humans. what does hsv culture without typing meanhow to get guitar in kaiju paradisehow to get guitar in kaiju paradise Other names: herpes culture, herpes simplex viral culture, HSV-1 antibodies, HSV-2 antibodies, HSV DNA. First outbreaks tend to be worse than subsequent ones. Specify the exact specimen source/origin (eg, genital lesion). Herpes is a skin infection caused by the herpes simplex virus, known as HSV.HSV causes painful blisters or sores in different parts of the body. A 96-well plate has been precoated with Herpes simplex virus Type 1. the herpes 1 &2 igm and igg panel testing package provides a comprehensive screening for both recent and past exposure to the herpes virus.herpes is a common a viral infection which is spread through skin to skin contact with the infected area.the most common forms of herpes . what does hsv culture without typing mean Find out what each type of herpes feels like. HSV 1 IgG, Type Spec 32 index HSV 2 IgG, Type Spec <0.91 If transmission occurs, the virus can reactivate soon after birth and spread to the baby's lungs, liver, brain, or circulatory system, causing severe illness and even death. Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Genital Herpes Screening FAQ; [updated 2017 Feb 9; cited 2018 Jun 13]; [about 5 screens]. The drugs can be taken with or without food, but the doses need to be evenly spaced throughout the day (every 12 hours for twice-daily doses and every eight hours for thrice-daily doses). Laboratory diagnosis of HSV infections. While many experts recommend initiating treatment within 72 hours of the appearance of lesions, there are still benefits if treatment is started after 72 hours. Madison (WI): University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority; c2018. Minneapolis: Allina Health; Herpes viral culture of lesion; [cited 2018 Jun 13]; [about 3 screens]. The Marburg virus disease is a rare but severe hemorrhagic fever," according to the CDC. When this occurs, your doctor may order a herpes viral culture lesion test. CDC: Genital Herpes -- CDC Fact Sheet., Mayo Clinic: Diseases and Conditions -- Genital Herpes., Center for Young Womens Health: Herpes., U.S. Preventive Services Task Force: Screening for Genital Herpes Simplex: Brief Update for the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force., American Sexual Health Association: Herpes Blood Test Reference Guide.. Matthew J, et al. Causes and Risk Factors, How to Recognize and Deal With Herpes Discharge, 3 Surprising Ways That STIs Increase HIV Risk. Nor does it mean you are . In this article, well cover how the test works, why its given, and more. HSV is occasionally isolated from the CSF of patients with HSV 2 meningitis and of neonates with congenital herpes, and from urine of patients with primary genital HSV infections concurrent with cystitis. We'll cover, There are two types of herpes: oral and genital. The first genital herpes outbreak will generally be worse than the ones that follow. Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. This is done usually by . about all medicines, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. Madison (WI): University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority; c2018. Available from: University of Rochester Medical Center [Internet]. Herpes: What Are the Differences? what does hsv culture without typing mean village naturiste leucate avis; sunnyside high school ricky torres; pink urban dictionary; mccormick human resources; crestcore rental listings; joey badass let it breathe sample; Post author: Post published: June 29, 2022; Post category: what is a jackpot roping; If you want to reduce the severity and number of your outbreaks, your provider may prescribe a medicine that can help. It may mean you have an active infection (you currently have sores), or were infected in the past (you have no sores). Numerous experiments which are performed on human test subjects in the United States are considered unethical, because they are performed without the knowledge or informed consent of the test subjects.Such tests have been performed throughout American history, but some of them are ongoing.The experiments include the exposure of humans to many chemical and biological weapons (including . This test looks for which type of herpes simplex virus is causing your infection. Submit one specimen per test requested. A "negative" viral . Eine andere -Site. Tupocon Oy > Yleinen > what does hsv culture without typing mean. Herpes: What Are the Differences? On the flip side, having HSV-2 increases the risk of getting HIV by around 300%. When it does, it can lead to an outbreak of blisters on the genitals or rectum that break open to cause painful, oozing sores. Chioma Ndubisi, MD, is a board-certified OB/GYN who specializes in sexual and reproductive health in New York, New York. Sexual contact is the primary way that the virus spreads. Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Genital Herpes-CDC Fact Sheet; [updated 2017 Sep 1; cited 2018 Jun 13]; [about 3 screens]. RewriteCond %{REQUEST_FILENAME} !-f sores around the mouth. HSV is occasionally isolated from the CSF of patients with HSV 2 meningitis and of neonates with congenital herpes, and from urine of patients with primary genital HSV infections concurrent with cystitis. Coming to terms with genital herpes can take time, and it often helps to join a support group to educate yourself and get perspective on what it is like to live with this common viral disease. Available from: UW Health [Internet]. Medication doses are measured in grams (g) or milligrams (mg). But, herpes simplex type 1 (HSV-1), the type linked to cold sores, can also be passed to the genitals during oral sex. Labs & Appointments Toggle Labs & Appointments, Billing & Insurance Toggle Billing & Insurance, Diseases & Conditions Toggle Diseases & Conditions, OnDemand Testing Toggle OnDemand Testing, Testing by Disease & Condition Toggle Testing by Disease & Condition, Testing & Services For Toggle Testing & Services For, Hospitals & Physician Systems Toggle Hospitals & Physician Systems, Managed Care Health Plans Toggle Managed Care Health Plans, Lab Data Integrations & Tools Toggle Lab Data Integrations & Tools, Employee Wellness & Testing Toggle Employee Wellness & Testing, Government & Education Toggle Government & Education, Therapeutic Indications Toggle Therapeutic Indications, Development Phase Toggle Development Phase, Compounds & Molecules Toggle Compounds & Molecules. Sex is the predominant mode of transmission. Turnaround time is defined as the usual number of days from the date of pickup of a specimen for Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results. incident in kingsteignton today lebron james house address zillow. Alternatively, type-specific serologic tests based on glycoprotein G should . Arvin AM, Prober CG. If a patient has no blisters or sores, providers may use a blood test to see if they have herpes. Read our, How Do You Get Herpes? This page will help you understand CDCs herpes testing recommendations. Additional information regarding LOINC codes can be found at LOINC.org, including the LOINC Manual, which can be downloaded at LOINC.org/downloads/files/LOINCManual.pdf. They help us to know which pages are the most and least popular and see how visitors move around the site. testing to when the result is released to the ordering provider. However, antiviral drugs can reduce the duration and severity of an outbreak. what does hsv culture without typing mean. what does hsv culture without typing mean. Theyll need to scrape the sore to collect fluid and cells from the skin. You may need an HSV test if you have symptoms of a brain or spinal cord disorder. Ask them which infections they areandare nottesting you for and why. Labs & Appointments Toggle Labs & Appointments, Billing & Insurance Toggle Billing & Insurance, Diseases & Conditions Toggle Diseases & Conditions, OnDemand Testing Toggle OnDemand Testing, Testing by Disease & Condition Toggle Testing by Disease & Condition, Testing & Services For Toggle Testing & Services For, Hospitals & Physician Systems Toggle Hospitals & Physician Systems, Managed Care Health Plans Toggle Managed Care Health Plans, Lab Data Integrations & Tools Toggle Lab Data Integrations & Tools, Employee Wellness & Testing Toggle Employee Wellness & Testing, Government & Education Toggle Government & Education, Therapeutic Indications Toggle Therapeutic Indications, Development Phase Toggle Development Phase, Compounds & Molecules Toggle Compounds & Molecules. laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results, https://wellness.allinahealth.org/library/content/1/3739, http://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-complications/stds-and-pregnancy, http://www.ashasexualhealth.org/stdsstis/herpes/fast-facts-and-faqs, https://www.cdc.gov/std/herpes/stdfact-herpes.htm, https://www.cdc.gov/std/herpes/screening.htm, https://labtestsonline.org/tests/herpes-testing, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/genital-herpes/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20356167, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/genital-herpes/symptoms-causes/syc-20356161, https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/infections/viral-infections/herpes-simplex-virus-infections, http://www.merckmanuals.com/home/brain,-spinal-cord,-and-nerve-disorders/diagnosis-of-brain,-spinal-cord,-and-nerve-disorders/tests-for-brain,-spinal-cord,-and-nerve-disorders, https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/blood-tests, https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=167&contentid=herpes_simplex_antibody, https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=167&contentid=hsv_dna_csf, https://www.uwhealth.org/health/topic/major/genital-herpes/hw270613.html, https://www.uwhealth.org/health/topic/medicaltest/herpes-tests/hw264763.html#hw264785, https://www.uwhealth.org/health/topic/medicaltest/herpes-tests/hw264763.html#hw264791, https://www.uwhealth.org/health/topic/medicaltest/herpes-tests/hw264763.html, https://www.uwhealth.org/health/topic/medicaltest/herpes-tests/hw264763.html#hw264780, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Find out whether sores on the mouth or genitals are caused by HSV, Diagnose an HSV infection in a pregnant woman, Find out if a newborn is infected with HSV, You have symptoms of herpes, such as blisters or sores on the genitals or other part of the body. Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a prevalent, easily transmissible virus that causes lifelong viral infection. In rare cases, HSV can infect other parts of the body, including the brain and spinal cord. All Rights Reserved, 7410 SW Oleson Road PO BOX 427 Portland, OR 97223, Getting a Herpes Western Blot Video Consult. At the lab, the sample is placed in a dish and observed for 16 hours or up to 7 days to monitor the growth of the virus. HSV1 is more common. Reichman RC. Once a person is infected with HSV, theres no cure. HSV-2 doesn't always cause symptoms. 404 means the file is not found. Edit the file on your computer and upload it to the server via FTP. tial outbreak, though, a negative culture does not mean that you absolutely . (You may need to consult other articles and resources for that information.). Have a partner with HIV and/or another STD. The virus is passed during intimate sexual contact prior to and following the outbreak of ulcers. Viral culture. You may have slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly. There is very little risk to having a blood test. Over time, the number of outbreaks tends to decrease and become less severe. If you have already uploaded the file then the name may be misspelled or it is in a different folder. How the Test is Performed. Oral sex, vaginal sex or anal sex, are some of the major ways of transmitting the herpes simplex virus. If you've been diagnosed with genital herpes, condom use can reduce your risk of spreading the infection to others. Health Information: Herpes Tests: Why It Is Done; [updated 2017 Mar 20; cited 2018 Jun 13]; [about 3 screens]. A herpes infection can be life threatening to a baby. After that time, the level of herpes virus starts to drop.