Herpes Testing Near Me, Incubation Period, & Increased Risk of HIV
Herpes is a common sexually transmitted disease. Medically speaking, it is caused by two types of viruses – Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV 1) and Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV 2).
To be more specific, they are: Humanalphaherpesvirus 1and Humanalphaherpesvirus 2.
Testing for herpes
Testing for herpes is simple. The doctor would take a swab sample, which contains fluid and cells from the sore or blister. It is cultured in the lab to detect the presence of HSV 1 or HSV 2.
Another way to test for herpes is through a blood sample.
HSV 1 causes oral herpes. You may get sores or blisters in or around the mouth.
HSV 2 causes genital herpes. You may get sores or blisters at the genital or rectal area, depending on your sexual behavior.
Wondering “where is herpes testing near me”? The nearest urgent care clinic conducts STD testing, which includes testing for herpes. You can simply walk into the clinic and ask for a test. The staff can keep your identity confidential upon request.
Incubation period of herpes
The incubation period for herpes 1 and 2 is 2-12 days. This means it takes your body 2-12 days to produce antibodies after been exposed to the herpes virus.
It is important that you wait for 12 days before undergoing herpes testing, lest you get a false negative. The body takes time to produce antibodies to fight an infection. It is these antibodies that the test detects.
So, if you undergo a test during the incubation period, you may get wrong results. Your body is still building the antibodies.
However, if you believe you are exposed to the infection, do this:
- Stop having sex until you receive the test results.
- Consult a doctor at your nearest urgent care clinic.
If you see sores or blisters in the genital area or mouth, you should not wait to get tested. The doctor will collect the swab sample and detect the virus in it. So, you need not wait until your body produces antibodies.
Waiting till the incubation period ends holds true for people who do not get any symptom, yet believe they have been exposed to the virus.
Whatever may be your case, you can always walk inside the urgent care clinic and discuss with the doctor about the best thing to do. It is good to get sound medical advice instead of assuming things.
Herpes puts you at high risk of HIV
According to doctors, people with herpes infection are at a greater risk of contracting HIV. This is because sores and blisters in the genital area make it more conducive for the HIV to enter your body.
So, if you were exposed to herpes infection, it is good to undergo HIV testing in Washington DC clinic. Both herpes and HIV testing is available at the clinic at reasonable rates. One smart move from your side can not only save you from further health complications, but also save your partner from infection. Help prevent the spread of STDs. Undergo a test today.
