How long does herpes take to show up in a blood test?

by Kary
(San Diego, US)

Is there a genital herpes test that can help determine whether the herpes virus is new in your body? My BF's doctor told him his blood test shows that the herpes virus is new in his body and that means he must have contracted it from me within the last 3 months because I am the only person he has had sex with in that time period. My doctor said there is no way to determine when someone contracted the herpes virus.

Answer


It can take several weeks to develop the herpes antibodies after exposure, which is what a blood test for herpes is looking for. Usually it takes 3 wks through 3 months after exposure for the antibodies to appear.

No, it does not mean that he got it from you. He could have had herpes for years and just now passed it to you, even if you two have been together for awhile. Then it will take awhile for it to show up in his blood test.

False negative tests are very common. You can have herpes yet never have an outbreak or even be diagnosed with it for years and years. Blood tests are not accurate, a PCR DNA of spinal fluid will be a for sure diagnosis.