Latest news with #HSV-2
Yahoo
7 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
The best herpes test kits for 2025, according to experts
Herpes affects billions of people around the world. In fact, the World Health Organization reports that 3.8 billion people under the age of 50 have herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), the main cause of oral herpes, while an estimated 520 million people ages 15 to 49 have herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), the main cause of genital herpes. Yet, despite how prevalent this infection is, when going to your doctor specifically for a sexually transmitted infection (STI) panel, herpes is not typically included in the screening. Fortunately, there are at-home herpes test kits that can give you the answers you need without a trip to the doctor."At-home tests are generally reliable when used correctly," says Dr. Stephanie Hack, board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist. In the U.S., where there are roughly 572,000 new cases of genital herpes in individuals between the ages of 14 and 49 each year, at-home testing can be a reliable part of regular sexual health screenings. But Dr. Hack notes that not all herpes tests are created equal. A key point to keep in mind — you don't want to buy just any old test and hope for the best. When it comes to testing for herpes, you want to make sure the test you choose is accurate and easy to help us understand what to look for in the best at-home herpes tests, we spoke with a panel of four medical experts who specialize in sexual and reproductive health to get their input on self-administered herpes tests. We then used the experts' input and my own experience as a health care professional and health journalist to research the top OTC herpes tests, rating each based on cost, ease of use, time to receive results and any additional medical support offered. Here are our picks for the best at-home herpes tests for a range of needs. However, if you're concerned about other sexually transmitted infections as well, consider our top picks for the best at-home STD tests and best at-home syphilis tests. Best at-home herpes test overall Other top at-home herpes tests we recommend for 2025 Factors to consider when choosing an at-home herpes test How we chose the best at-home herpes test FAQs Meet our experts Update, July 2, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability. Our No. 1 pick for the best at-home herpes test remains unchanged. (back to top) (back to top) Choosing the right herpes test for you is a personal decision that depends on your specific needs. Before making a decision, it's a good idea to consider certain factors: Type of test: HSV-1 is generally considered the virus responsible for oral herpes, whereas genital herpes is associated more with HSV-2. However, since genital herpes can come from either herpes virus, tests that look for both types of of the virus tend to be more accurate. On the other hand, tests that screen only for HSV-2 are typically more cost-effective. Collection method: Herpes can be detected using a blood sample or a swab of the lesion if an outbreak is present. According to Dr. Jill Purdie, board-certified ob/gyn in Alpharetta, Ga., taking a swab of the sore itself is the most accurate type of test, but it's also more prone to user error than a blood sample. A swab sample also requires an active outbreak, whereas a blood test can determine whether or not you've been exposed to the virus even when an outbreak is not present. Time until results: The last thing you want to do when getting an STD test is sit around and wait for the results. Certain tests offer shorter wait times, while others might take a bit longer. All the tests on this list have a turnaround time of between one and five days. Medical support included: If you test positive, does the company offer any type of medical support? If a medical consultation is available, is it free or does it cost extra? Additionally, is treatment or a prescribing provider available? Cost: Along with the cost of the actual test, consider whether or not there are additional fees for shipping, follow-up support or treatment options. Also, consider whether or not FSA/HSA payments are accepted. Accuracy: For the most accurate results, look for a company that uses CAP- and CLIA-certified labs. Privacy: Most at-home herpes tests don't accept insurance or require extensive identifying information outside of name and address, which can go a long way toward protecting your privacy. Additionally, look for a company that offers discreet packaging when shipping. (back to top) To find the best at-home herpes tests on the market today, we first consulted a panel of medical experts who specialize in sexual health, urology and reproductive and women's health. Our team then researched a broad range of at-home HSV tests and rated each based on cost, the type of herpes viruses tested, accuracy, collection method and turnaround time. In addition, we considered the company's reputation and follow-up support. Specifically, we looked at whether or not the option for a health care consultation or treatment was available. After compiling the data, we narrowed our list of the best herpes tests based on specific testing needs, such as turnaround time and additional medical support. (back to top) Herpes is primarily detected in one of two ways: through antibodies in the blood or by the presence of the virus in a lesion. Urine tests are less common but can be used in combination with another sample method to ensure accuracy. To date, there are not any fully at-home rapid tests that can detect the herpes virus, so all "at-home" tests require you to pre-purchase the test online, then collect the sample yourself and mail it to the lab or visit a certified lab to have the sample specimen taken for you. Regardless of the option you choose, at-home herpes enable you to get tested without making an appointment with your primary care doctor. Herpes is a virus that causes skin infections and painful sores on the body, primarily around the mouth and genital areas. Aleece Fosnight, a board-certified physician assistant specializing in sexual medicine, women's health, and urology, tells us: "There are several types of herpes including varicella-zoster, the virus responsible for chicken pox. But the herpes simplex virus — or HSV — comes in two forms: HSV-1 mainly causes oral herpes — also known as cold sores HSV-2 is associated with genital herpes HSV-1 is spread through skin-to-skin contact and saliva and mainly causes oral herpes, also known as cold sores. HSV-2, on the other hand, is usually spread through sexual contact, resulting in genital herpes. Although herpes is most contagious during an outbreak, herpes simplex 1 and 2 can also be transmitted when there are no visible sores or symptoms. Unlike most other STDs that can only be spread through bodily fluids, HSV-1 and 2 can be transmitted through close skin-to-skin contact. "Both types of herpes can cause small, painful blisters around the site of the infection," says Dr. Rashid Bani, medical director at Your Sexual Health. Moreover, both types can infect your face or genitals. Although HSV-2 is responsible for most cases of genital herpes, you can get genital herpes from HSV-1 (and vice versa). Painful sores or blisters are the most common symptom of herpes, Purdie tells us. With oral herpes, there is typically just one blister, whereas genital herpes often appears in a cluster. Other common signs can include: Fever or flu-like symptoms Headaches Body and muscle aches Swollen lymph nodes in the neck or groin area Tingling, burning or itching sensation Unusual vaginal discharge Painful urination It's important to note, though, that not everyone who's infected with herpes will show symptoms. In fact, most people with HSV are asymptomatic and may not even realize they have it. You should get tested if you begin to experience symptoms or notice any sores around your genitals, says Hack. One exception would be if you've had sex with a partner who has genital herpes. In that case, it's important to remember that it can take time for your body to develop HSV antibodies. The incubation period for herpes is typically two to 12 days, but it can take even longer. In some cases, it can take up to 16 weeks or more for HSV to be detected in your blood, Fosnight says. Our experts agree that at-home tests are generally reliable when used correctly, so it's crucial you follow the directions for sample collection exactly as stated by the company. While the most accurate way to detect herpes is through a viral culture or PCR test via a swab of the blister or lesion, "blood tests, which look for HSV antibodies in a blood sample, can be used if you don't have an active outbreak or sore," says Hack. If you test positive for herpes, the next step should be to consult a healthcare provider to discuss possible treatment options. While there is no cure, treatments are available to help speed up healing, prevent or shorten outbreaks and reduce the chances of spreading it to partners. Your doctor may also advise getting retested after a positive test result, especially if you have no symptoms. "No HSV test is perfect, and false results can occur," says Hack. For example, one study found that herpes IgM testing resulted in many false positives for HSV-2 and many false negatives for HSV-1. False negatives can occur if the infection is very new since your body hasn't developed the antibodies yet. On the other hand, false positives can occur due to cross-reactivity. Antibody tests can sometimes react to other viruses in the same family (e.g., HSV-1 or the varicella-zoster virus). In other words, you may test positive for herpes type 2 when, in fact, you only have type 1. Because of that, it's always a good idea to discuss your results and sexual history with a doctor. (back to top) Dr. Stephanie Hack, board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist Dr. Jill Purdie, board-certified ob/gyn in Alpharetta, Ga. Aleece Fosnight, a board-certified physician assistant specializing in sexual medicine Dr. Rashid Bani, medical director at Your Sexual Health (back to top) Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
Sinar Daily
23-06-2025
- Health
- Sinar Daily
Understanding herpes risks for pregnant mothers and babies
The virus is highly contagious and can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person's bodily fluids, including saliva or genital secretions. Neonatal herpes, a rare but potentially life-threatening condition, occurs when a newborn contracts the virus during delivery. - Photo illustrated by Sinar Daily SHAH ALAM – Herpes, caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), is a common viral infection presenting in two primary forms: HSV-1, typically linked to oral infections and HSV-2, which usually causes genital infections. The virus is highly contagious and can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person's bodily fluids, including saliva or genital secretions. While herpes infections are often manageable, they can lead to severe complications, particularly for newborns. - 123RF photo While herpes infections are often manageable, they can lead to severe complications, particularly for newborns. Neonatal herpes, a rare but potentially life-threatening condition, occurs when a newborn contracts the virus during delivery. KPJ Damansara Obstetrics and Gynaecology specialist, Professor Dr Imelda Nasreen Nasruddin @ Balchin, shared a poignant case describing the dangers of neonatal herpes. "In 1999, I witnessed an 11-day-old baby brought into the emergency department, who sadly passed away. "A post-mortem revealed that the baby's liver was filled with herpes simplex virus infection, which was the cause of death," she shared in her Facebook post. Upon further investigation, she said the mother admitted to having experienced a genital herpes infection about a month before giving birth but had not informed the midwife. "Now, medical guidelines recommend that if a pregnant mother contracts a genital herpes simplex virus infection within six weeks before her due date, the advice is to deliver via Caesarean section to protect the baby from contracting HSV," she said. Genital herpes in pregnant women often goes unnoticed, as symptoms can range from painful sores to mild irritation or even no symptoms at all. What is Herpes? Herpes is classified into two primary types: HSV-1 (oral herpes): Commonly associated with cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth and face. HSV-2 (genital herpes): Typically affects the genital and anal areas but can also occur in other parts of the body. The virus is highly contagious and can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected individual, including kissing, sharing utensils, or sexual contact. Symptoms and Diagnosis While many infected individuals experience mild or no symptoms, others may have painful sores, itching, or burning sensations in affected areas. Recurrences are common, as the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate during periods of stress, illness, or weakened immunity. Diagnosis is often made through physical examinations and laboratory tests such as swabs from sores or blood tests. More Like This
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Cold sores may play role in Alzheimer's development, new research reveals
Cold sores may play a role in the development of Alzheimer's disease, according to a new study published in BMJ Open. Researchers examined 344,628 "case-control pairs." The pairs were matched in age, sex, geographical region and number of healthcare visits — but one had Alzheimer's disease and one did not. Of the groups studied, 1,507 people with Alzheimer's also had herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which is the most common cause of cold sores. Only 823 people in the control group had HSV-1. First Blood Test For Alzheimer's Diagnosis Cleared By Fda Among these 2,330 people, 40% used anti-herpetic medication following their diagnosis. Those who were treated for the virus were 17% less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease than those who didn't use the treatments, the study found. Read On The Fox News App The risk of developing this form of dementia is known to rise with age. However, the chance of an HSV-1 diagnosis was 80% higher in those diagnosed with Alzheimer's, according to the research. Less commonly, cold sores can be caused by herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Alzheimer's Disease Could Be Prevented By Antiviral Drug Already On Market The analysis places "an even greater emphasis on viewing the prevention of herpes viruses as a public health priority," the researchers said in a press release. Overall, women made up 65% of the Alzheimer's cases. Their average age was 73, and they tended to have more co-existing conditions, which were all risk factors. The study also observed the potential role of other herpes viruses, some of which were associated with an elevated risk of Alzheimer's disease. The specific connection between viruses like HSV-1 and heightened dementia risk isn't clear, the researchers noted. Click Here To Sign Up For Our Health Newsletter "However, studies have shown that inflammatory alterations in the brain caused by HSV infection are pivotal in [Alzheimer's disease] development," they said in the release. Treatment with anti-viral therapy seems to lower the risk of Alzheimer's, "suggesting that HSV-1 treatment may be protective," the study says. "There's no cure for cold sores, but treatment can help manage outbreaks," according to Mayo Clinic. "Prescription antiviral medicine or creams can help sores heal more quickly. And they may make future outbreaks happen less often and be shorter and less serious." There were some limitations in the study, the researchers acknowledged. "Due to limited data history, HSV-1 infections prior to the patient's database entry were not included in the analysis, and it is possible that some overlap exists between HSV-1 and HSV-2 diagnoses," the researchers noted. "Additionally, many individuals with HSV-1 infection are asymptomatic, and others may not seek medical care during recurrences and are therefore not clinically diagnosed and recorded in the database." While an estimated two-thirds of people under 50 are infected with HSV-1, data on symptomatic infections is limited, "as manifestations can be mild or unnoticed," the researchers added. For more Health articles, visit Under-diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease could also skew the results. Fox News Digital reached out to the researchers and other doctors for article source: Cold sores may play role in Alzheimer's development, new research reveals
The Journal
21-05-2025
- Health
- The Journal
Treating cold sores with anti-virals could help slash the risk of developing Alzheimer's
TREATING COLD SORES with anti-viral medicines could help slash the risk of Alzheimer's disease, research suggests. Previous studies have found that the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) can lie dormant in human cells for a lifetime before 're-awakening', leading to dementia symptoms. Experts have discovered that HSV-1 causes changes that resemble those in the brains of dementia patients, such as amyloid plaque-like formations and inflammation. Now, a large US study suggests that treating HSV-1 may be a route to lessening the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Researchers, including from pharmaceutical firm Gilead Sciences and the University of Washington in Seattle, used data on 344,628 people with Alzheimer's matched with the same number of people without the disease. All were aged over 50 and the diagnosis of Alzheimer's was made between 2006 and 2021. A history of HSV-1 diagnosis was noted for 1,507 (0.44%) patients with Alzheimer's, compared with 823 (0.24%) of those without. Nearly two thirds (65%) of those with Alzheimer's disease were women, with an average age of 73. The study found that people who had suffered the herpes virus had an 80% increased risk of Alzheimer's, even when other factors were taken into account. But those with HSV-1 who used anti-virals to treat the virus were 17% less likely to develop Alzheimer's compared with those who did not use the medicines. Among the 2,330 people with a history of HSV-1 infection, 931 (40%) used anti-virals after their diagnosis. The authors, writing in the journal BMJ Open , concluded: 'Findings from this large… study implicate HSV-1 in the development of Alzheimer's disease and highlight anti-herpetic therapies as potentially protective for Alzheimer's and related dementia.' In the UK, the drug aciclovir is one of those available for treating cold sores, chickenpox, shingles and other herpes virus infections. The researchers also looked at the potential role of other herpes viruses, including HSV-2, varicella zoster virus (which causes chickenpox), and cytomegalovirus. Both HSV-2 and varicella zoster virus infections were also associated with a heightened risk of Alzheimer's disease. Exactly how HSV-1 and other viruses might heighten the risk of dementia is not clear, point out the researchers. 'However, studies have shown that inflammatory alterations in the brain caused by HSV infection are pivotal in (Alzheimer's disease) development,' they added. HSV-1 DNA is also found in the plaques characteristic of Alzheimer's disease, and people carrying the most common genetic risk factor for the disease are more susceptible to HSV infections, they said. Professor Tara Spires-Jones, from the University of Edinburgh, said: 'This is a well-conducted study adding to strong data in the field linking HSV-1 and other viral infections to increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, but it is important to note that HSV-1 infection, which is extremely common in the population, is by no means a guarantee that someone will develop Alzheimer's. 'Why viral infections may increase risk of dementia is not fully understood, but the most likely explanation is that infections increase inflammation in the body and contribute to age-related brain inflammation. 'More research is needed to understand the best way to protect our brains from Alzheimer's disease as we age, including a better understanding of links between viral infection and Alzheimer's risk.' Dr David Vickers, from the University of Calgary in Canada, said the 'research exaggerates the role of HSV-1, failing to appreciate its absence in 99.56% of Alzheimer's disease cases'. He added: 'The observed 17% hazard reduction with anti-herpetic drugs translates to a mere nine-month delay in Alzheimer's disease onset.' Dr Richard Oakley, director of research and innovation at the Alzheimer's Society, said: 'Results from this observational study suggested that people with recorded cold sore infections were more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease, and interestingly those prescribed antiviral drugs had a slightly lower risk. 'But this doesn't prove that cold sores cause Alzheimer's disease, or that anti-virals prevent it. 'The data came from insurance records, often based on self-reported symptoms which may miss or misclassify infections, and didn't track how often people had cold sores or how consistently they took medication. 'Much more research is needed to explore exactly how viruses might be involved and before we can draw firm conclusions.' Dr Sheona Scales, director of research at Alzheimer's Research UK, welcomed the study but said more research was needed. 'We know there are 14 established risk factors for dementia, and there's not enough evidence to include infections in this list. 'This study doesn't tell us if infections are causing the risk, it only shows an association. Further research is needed to understand what the underlying biology around this is.' Advertisement
South Wales Guardian
21-05-2025
- Health
- South Wales Guardian
Treating cold sores with anti-virals ‘may slash risk of developing Alzheimer's'
Previous studies have found that the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) can lie dormant in human cells for a lifetime before 're-awakening', leading to dementia symptoms. Experts have discovered that HSV-1 causes changes that resemble those in the brains of dementia patients, such as amyloid plaque-like formations and inflammation. Now, a large US study suggests that treating HSV-1 may be a route to lessening the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Researchers, including from pharmaceutical firm Gilead Sciences and the University of Washington in Seattle, used data on 344,628 people with Alzheimer's matched with the same number of people without the disease. All were aged over 50 and the diagnosis of Alzheimer's was made between 2006 and 2021. A history of HSV-1 diagnosis was noted for 1,507 (0.44%) patients with Alzheimer's, compared with 823 (0.24%) of those without. Nearly two thirds (65%) of those with Alzheimer's disease were women, with an average age if 73. The study found that people who had suffered the herpes virus had an 80% increased risk of Alzheimer's, even when other factors were taken into account. But those with HSV-1 who used anti-virals to treat the virus were 17% less likely to develop Alzheimer's compared with those who did not the medicines. Among the 2,330 people with a history of HSV-1 infection, 931 (40%) used anti-virals after their diagnosis. The authors, writing in the journal BMJ Open, concluded: 'Findings from this large…study implicate HSV-1 in the development of Alzheimer's disease and highlight anti-herpetic therapies as potentially protective for Alzheimer's and related dementia.' In the UK, the drug aciclovir is one of those available for treating cold sores, chickenpox, shingles and other herpes virus infections. The researchers also looked at the potential role of other herpes viruses, including HSV-2, varicella zoster virus (which causes chickenpox), and cytomegalovirus. Both HSV-2 and varicella zoster virus infections were also associated with a heightened risk of Alzheimer's disease. Exactly how HSV-1 and other viruses might heighten the risk of dementia is not clear, point out the researchers. 'However, studies have shown that inflammatory alterations in the brain caused by HSV infection are pivotal in (Alzheimer's disease) development,' they added. HSV-1 DNA is also found in the plaques characteristic of Alzheimer's disease, and people carrying the most common genetic risk factor for the disease are more susceptible to HSV infections, they said. Professor Tara Spires-Jones, from the University of Edinburgh, said: 'This is a well-conducted study adding to strong data in the field linking HSV-1 and other viral infections to increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, but it is important to note that HSV-1 infection, which is extremely common in the population, is by no means a guarantee that someone will develop Alzheimer's. 'Why viral infections may increase risk of dementia is not fully understood, but the most likely explanation is that infections increase inflammation in the body and contribute to age-related brain inflammation. 'More research is needed to understand the best way to protect our brains from Alzheimer's disease as we age, including a better understanding of links between viral infection and Alzheimer's risk.' Dr David Vickers, from the University of Calgary in Canada, said the 'research exaggerates the role of HSV-1, failing to appreciate its absence in 99.56% of Alzheimer's disease cases'. He added: 'The observed 17% hazard reduction with anti-herpetic drugs translates to a mere nine-month delay in Alzheimer's disease onset.' Dr Richard Oakley, director of research and innovation at the Alzheimer's Society, said: 'Results from this observational study suggested that people with recorded cold sore infections were more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease, and interestingly those prescribed antiviral drugs had a slightly lower risk. 'But this doesn't prove that cold sores cause Alzheimer's disease, or that anti-virals prevent it. 'The data came from insurance records, often based on self-reported symptoms which may miss or misclassify infections, and didn't track how often people had cold sores or how consistently they took medication. 'Much more research is needed to explore exactly how viruses might be involved and before we can draw firm conclusions.' Dr Sheona Scales, director of research at Alzheimer's Research UK, welcomed the study but said more research was needed. 'We know there are 14 established risk factors for dementia, and there's not enough evidence to include infections in this list. 'This study doesn't tell us if infections are causing the risk, it only shows an association. Further research is needed to understand what the underlying biology around this is.'
