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Is HSV-1 Infection Contagious?
Question: Hello Dr, I just came to know that i am hsv1 positive.. I am married and have two children. I am very worried that I do not transmit it to them. Also, How can I make sure it is not transmitted to my wife? If I plan to have another child, how can I make sure it does not transmit to the newborn. Thank you.
Brief Answer:
Go for HSV1 antibody testing of your wife.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for using HCM,
I have read your query and understand the concern regarding HSV1.
If you have been together with your wife for a long time, then it is probable that you both have it but the best thing would be to have your partner tested with a blood test for HSV1 antibodies which will confirm whether she has been transmitted it from you or not.
If she tests positive, then you both have it and do not need to worry about transmission anymore.You both will need anti-viral treatment after consulting to dermatologist.
If she tests negative, then you should always use condoms during sex and take pills for herpes such as valtrex (valacyclovir) or Zovirax (acyclovir) which will to help reduce the risk of transmission, and avoid sex when the outbreak is active.
I understand that you are worried about your future child but before that your partner needs to be tested for HSV1 and it it comes negative then there is no need to worry and only you would require anti-viral medications to prevent/reduce the risk of transmission as we discussed.
You may talk to your doctor (preferably dermatologist) who will know about it and can prescribe you this medications as per your requirement.
I hope this was helpful, please let me know if you have any more questions.
Regards,
Dr.Sandip Kabra
Go for HSV1 antibody testing of your wife.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for using HCM,
I have read your query and understand the concern regarding HSV1.
If you have been together with your wife for a long time, then it is probable that you both have it but the best thing would be to have your partner tested with a blood test for HSV1 antibodies which will confirm whether she has been transmitted it from you or not.
If she tests positive, then you both have it and do not need to worry about transmission anymore.You both will need anti-viral treatment after consulting to dermatologist.
If she tests negative, then you should always use condoms during sex and take pills for herpes such as valtrex (valacyclovir) or Zovirax (acyclovir) which will to help reduce the risk of transmission, and avoid sex when the outbreak is active.
I understand that you are worried about your future child but before that your partner needs to be tested for HSV1 and it it comes negative then there is no need to worry and only you would require anti-viral medications to prevent/reduce the risk of transmission as we discussed.
You may talk to your doctor (preferably dermatologist) who will know about it and can prescribe you this medications as per your requirement.
I hope this was helpful, please let me know if you have any more questions.
Regards,
Dr.Sandip Kabra
Note: Consult a Sexual Diseases Specialist online for further follow up- Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Sonia Raina
Answered by
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