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Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG & IgM

Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG & IgM

Also referred as
Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 & 2 IgM & IgG Antibody test
620+ booked recently
For men & women
Earliest reports in
72 hours
Contains
2 tests
Know more about this test

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG & IgM test is a blood test done to detect the presence of immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 and type 2. HSV-1 typically causes oral herpes, while HSV-2 primarily causes genital herpes. This test helps determine the stage of the infection, differentiate between recent (acute) and past (chronic) infections, and aid in the appropriate and timely management of the infection.

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Understanding Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG & IgM

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection (herpes) is a skin infection that may spread through sexual contact or skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. HSV is classified into two types based on the areas they typically affect and how they are spread: HSV-1, which usually causes oral herpes, characterized by cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth, and HSV-2, which primarily causes genital herpes.

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG & IgM test measures two types of antibodies: Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and Immunoglobulin M (IgM) produced as an immune response against HSV-1 and HSV-2. IgM antibodies suggest a recent or acute infection, as they are produced early in the immune response and usually decline after a few months. IgG antibodies indicate past or chronic infection with the virus, as they typically develop after the initial infection and persist for life.

The primary purpose of the Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG & IgM test is to diagnose HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections by detecting IgG and IgM antibodies in the blood. It also helps distinguish between recent (acute) and past (chronic) herpes infections.

This test is often performed when an individual exhibits symptoms suggestive of a herpes infection, such as sores or blisters around the mouth or genital area, recurring blisters or ulcers, pain during urination, unusual discharge from the urethra and vagina, fever, body aches, sore throat, etc. It may also be part of routine screenings for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pre-pregnancy check-ups, as HSV can be transmitted to the baby during childbirth.

No specific preparation is needed to get the Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG & IgM test done. You can eat and drink normally before the test. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. Narrate your complete medical history and symptoms to help them correlate your clinical and laboratory findings and formulate your treatment plan.

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What does Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG & IgM measure?

Contains 2 tests

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG & IgM test is a blood test used to measure two types of antibodies: Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and Immunoglobulin M (IgM). IgG antibodies indicate a past infection or long-term presence of the virus, while IgM antibodies suggest a recent or acute infection. By identifying these antibodies, this test helps determine if an individual has been exposed to the virus and distinguishes between new and existing infections.

Getting tested helps in the diagnosis and management of herpes infections. Early and precise identification of HSV infections allows timely medical intervention, reducing symptoms and preventing complications. For pregnant women, detecting an HSV infection is crucial to prevent neonatal herpes, which can be severe for newborns. Additionally, knowing one's HSV status helps in taking preventive measures to avoid transmission to sexual partners and others, thus playing a significant role in public health and personal well-being.

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgM test is designed to detect IgM antibodies that are produced as a body's first response to a HSV infection. IgM antibodies may take up to 10 days to develop. Also, these antibodies are usually present in higher concentrations shortly after an infection and eventually decrease after a time period (7-10 days). Therefore, the presence of HSV-1 or HSV-2 IgM antibodies typically suggests a recent infection.

Early detection allows doctors to detect symptoms quickly and provide necessary medical interventions to individuals suffering from HSV infection, leading to better outcomes and improved quality of life.

 

Know more about Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgM

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG test determines the presence of IgG antibodies against HSV-1 and HSV-2  in response to the Herpes infection. Your body begins to make two relevant types of HSV-1 antibody or HSV-2 antibody around 18 to 21 days after you are exposed to the virus and remains in the body for life. The presence of IgG antibodies generally indicates past exposure and immunity against Herpes infection.

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FAQs related to Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG & IgM

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG & IgM test detects antibodies in the blood that indicate a past or recent herpes infection. The presence of IgG antibodies suggests a past infection, while the presence of IgM antibodies indicates a recent or active infection.
You should consider getting tested if you have symptoms of herpes (such as sores or blisters on the mouth or genitals) if you have had sexual contact with someone who has herpes, or if you are pregnant and have a history of herpes.
Individuals with recent asymptomatic HSV infection can also test positive for HSV-1 and HSV-2 IgM. That is why testing is crucial even without symptoms, especially in high-risk individuals.
Yes, individuals who have been exposed to the virus but do not show any symptoms can also test positive for HSV-1 and HSV-2 IgG, indicating that they have been infected in the past.
HSV-1 and HSV-2 are two types of herpes simplex viruses. HSV-1 is typically associated with oral herpes, causing cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth. HSV-2 primarily causes genital herpes, affecting the genital and anal areas.
Herpes outbreaks usually last about one to two weeks, though the first outbreak after infection may last longer.
Practicing safe sex, avoiding close physical contact with infected individuals, and maintaining good personal hygiene can help prevent the spread of HSV.
Yes, an individual can be infected with both HSV-1 and HSV-2. In such cases, they will test positive for IgG antibodies to both viruses.
Herpes can be well managed with antiviral medications, especially during outbreaks. It is advised to take only prescribed medicines and not self-medicate.
Use condoms, take antiviral medication if prescribed, avoid sexual contact during outbreaks, and practice good hygiene to reduce the risk of transmitting HSV.
As of now, there is no vaccine for HSV. Research is ongoing to develop one in the future.
Yes, HSV can affect pregnancy. It can be transmitted to the baby during childbirth, which can be serious. Pregnant women with HSV should discuss their condition with their doctor to manage the risk.
Content created by
Written by:
Dr. Lipika Khurana
BDS, PGDHHM
Reviewed by:
Dr. Swati Gupta (Anand)
MBBS, MD Lab Medicine
Want to know moreRead our editorial policy
Last Updated8th Oct 2025

Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG & IgM test price for other cities

Price inBangaloreRs. 1299
Price inNew DelhiRs. 1169
Price inMumbaiRs. 1279
Price inGurgaonRs. 1169
Price inHyderabadRs. 1169

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Contains 2 tests
Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgM
Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, IgG