Very Confused

Here is my situation i recently contracted Herpes Type I and i don't know where I got it from.  I already took the blood test and it says positive for HSV-I and negative for HSV-II.  I'm suspecting that i got it from my boyfriend because he is the only one I kiss a lot.  He claims he doesn't have herpes because he does not have symptoms.  Could have I gotten this from him..since he does not have insurance he can't go and get a blood test. My questions are

1.  If he really has HSV-I can he transmit HSV-1 to me genitally when he performs oral sex even though i already have HSV-1 orally? I mean can i have HSV-1 on both mouth and the genitals?

2. I'm slightly worried about having ocular herpes.  I have been reading recently and it says that Ocular herpes is caused by HSV-1.  I just want to know if it is treatable because they say it may cause blindness.  Plus, is it a common disease or rare? if yes, how rare or how common.

3. I want to get my boyfriend to be tested. Do you have any idea how he can get a blood test for a cheaper price?

4.  If my bf really has oral herpes.  can he transmit it into my eyes when he kiss me in the eyes even if he does not have outbreaks or he is asymptotic?


Thanks..;-)

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

You don't say whether you have herpes symptoms and, if so, whether your infection is genital or oral; or when you might have been infected.  If all you have is a positive blood test, you're just like most people; over half the population is infected with HSV-1, mostly oral.  To your questions:

1, 4) With a positive blood test for HSV-1, you are highly resistant to catching HSV-1 again, anywhere on your body.  It may occur, but is uncommon.

2) Ocular herpes is uncommon, and it usually isn't serious if treated right away.  Don't worry about it, but check with a provider right away if you get a sore eye.

3) You might call your local health department or community clinic to see if they offer low-cost testing.  Unfortunately, however, it is unlikely.But your boyfriend may not need testing at all, depending on your symptoms, when you think you were infected, and whether you have oral or genital infection.

It sounds like you need to learn more about herpes in general.  Please read the article on herpes in the link STD Quick Facts and Articles on the STD forum home page, then come back with more information about your infection, if you still have questions.

Best wishes-- HHH, MD

[Heavenkittykat13]

i already know the facts about herpes on the quickfacts...still i don't know the answer to my number 4 question

[monkeyflower]

He answered both 1 and 4 with the same response:

"1, 4) With a positive blood test for HSV-1, you are highly resistant to catching HSV-1 again, anywhere on your body. It may occur, but is uncommon."