An overview of the Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 and Type 2 Antibody Profile (IgG)

The Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 and Type 2 Antibody Profile (IgG) is a blood test that measures IgG antibodies produced by the immune system following infection with Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 or Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2. IgG antibodies develop weeks after initial infection and usually remain detectable for life.

This test is used to determine whether an individual has been previously exposed to either virus type, even if symptoms were mild or never occurred. It is particularly useful when there is uncertainty about past infection, partner status, or long-term carrier state.

Unlike Polymerase Chain Reaction tests, which detect active virus, or IgM tests, which focus on recent infection, IgG testing provides insight into historical exposure and immune memory, making it the preferred test for long-term status clarification.

When testing for Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 and Type 2 IgG is clinically useful

This test is appropriate if you want to understand whether you have ever been infected with Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 or Type 2. It is commonly used for reassurance, sexual health screening, relationship planning, or clinical background assessment.

Many people carry Herpes Simplex Virus without ever experiencing noticeable symptoms. As a result, IgG testing plays a key role in identifying silent or asymptomatic infection and supporting informed health decisions.

Testing may be appropriate if you:

• Want to know your long-term herpes status
• Have never had symptoms but want reassurance
• Have a partner with known herpes infection
• Are entering a new relationship
• Had symptoms in the past but were never tested
• Need confirmation following a previous positive or unclear result
• Want clarity after a negative Polymerase Chain Reaction test

Key benefits of the IgG antibody profile

• Confirms past exposure with high reliability
  Identifies established immune response to infection.
• Distinguishes long-term infection from recent exposure
  Helps clarify timing when combined with other tests.
• Useful even in the absence of symptoms
  Detects infection in asymptomatic individuals.
• Supports informed sexual health decisions
  Provides clarity for partner discussions.
• Helps explain past unexplained symptoms
  Useful when outbreaks occurred but were never diagnosed.
• Simple blood test with no special preparation
  No fasting or lifestyle changes required.
• Accurate differentiation between virus types
  Separately reports Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 and Type 2.
• Provides long-term reassurance or confirmation
  Reduces uncertainty regarding herpes status.

How the test is carried out

We offer two convenient UK-wide testing options:

Clinic-based blood testing

• Choose your nearest UK clinic
• A trained healthcare professional collects a blood sample
• The sample is analysed in a certified laboratory
• Results are issued once testing is complete

Home or hotel blood collection (+£60)

• A qualified phlebotomist visits your home, workplace, or hotel
• Blood is collected at a time that suits you
• No clinic visit required
• Available nationwide across the UK

Both options provide the same laboratory accuracy and clinical quality.

Understanding your Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 and Type 2 IgG results

Low IgG levels (Negative result)

Low or undetectable IgG levels indicate no evidence of past infection with Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 or Type 2. This suggests no previous exposure or testing performed before antibody development.

Typical UK reference range:

• Negative: < 0.9 index

If exposure was recent, repeat testing after several weeks may be advised.

Borderline IgG levels (Equivocal result)

Borderline results indicate antibody levels that are not clearly negative or positive. This may occur during early antibody development or due to immune variation.

Typical UK reference range:

• Equivocal: 0.9 – 1.1 index

Repeat testing is usually recommended for clarification.

High IgG levels (Positive result)

Elevated IgG levels indicate previous exposure to Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 or Type 2. This confirms established infection but does not indicate when infection occurred or whether the virus is currently active.

Typical UK reference range:

• Positive: > 1.1 index

A positive IgG result does not mean symptoms will occur or that the virus is currently transmissible.