[Question #7533] Herpes - HSV 1 dormancy

55 months ago

I have recently tested positive (swab) for HSV1. This has been a huge shock. My husband and I have been in a monogamous relationship and married for 27 years. I am 50 years old. My Dr. Believes this is the first outbreak - but I understand that outbreaks can be very mild for some (this one was not mild). I am wondering if this could have been dormant in me for decades or if my husband has it (still waiting the have a blood test) and only recently passed it up me. In your experience how likely is it that HSV 1 could be dormant for decades ? Have you seen other similar cases where people in long term monogamous relationships have a first outbreak?

Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner

55 months ago

So I am assuming you have a genital outbreak of HSV 1. Is your husband the giver of oral sex to you? If yes, then he can transmit virus from his mouth to your genitals during oral sex. I see this very frequently in monogamous relationships, yes! But you could also have acquired this through receiving oral sex years ago as well. Has your husband ever had a cold sore on his lip or in his nose? If yes, then this makes sense. If no,he can still be infected with HSV 1 without symptoms and transmit the virus to you.

Let me know the answers to these questions, please.

Terri

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55 months ago

Thank you so much.

Yes it’s a genital outbreak. My husband is not aware of any cold sores. My husband is being tested tomorrow (blood test for antibodies).

Is it possible to have been dormant in me for 20-30 years? If so why would I have an outbreak now? If this is all possible, how likely is this (ie how often do you see this)?

Thanks!

Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner

55 months ago

You didn't respond to my question about receiving oral sex from your husband. If the answer is no, then yes, you've likely had this for years prior.

One can certainly be infected orally without recognized symptoms. 70% of those infected with HSV 1 don't have or recognize symptoms.

Terri

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