I am a 57 year old male. I was diagnosed with HSV-1 genital 32 years ago and haven't had an out break in years. I was recently tested again and the results are as follows:  HSV- 1 IGG  = 26.8, HSV-2 <0.90, VARICELLA ZOSTER VIRUS (IGM) 0.60.  I have recently started dating a woman who has concerns. Though she doesn't  remember having a outbreak of any kind, she has tested positive for HSV-1.  Her prior husband did have cold sores that would show up from time to time. Does having in protected sex pose any treats to her?

Thank you For coming to our website to get answers for your herpes questions. I want to make sure I have the correct information from you before I answer your questions. So you were diagnosed with HSV 1 by swab test 32 years ago.  Your new partner testa positive for HSV one by blood antibody test.  Is that correct? Since you both have the same type of herpes, even though they may be in different locations, there is no longer a worry about transmission. In 33 years of practice, only once have I seen a patient who had a history of cold sores and subsequently developed HSV one lesions genitally.  So I guess I can't say it's impossible that she would acquire your HSV one from your genital area, If she doesn't have it there already, but I can say it would be extremely unlikely. If I was in your situation, I would have no concerns about transmission. I hope this is helpful and if you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.

Terri
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I do believe the prior test was with a swab. I can't recall if it was said that it was 1 or 2. I just remember being told I had herpes, that is the reason for the recent test was to find out which I had. Her test was a blood test.  Is the blood test that I recently took fairly accurate as far as determining type?

Yes, it is.  With 95% certainty, you don't have HSV 2, when compared with the gold standard western blot

Terri
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