Genital Herpes: Lifelong, Common, and More Manageable Than You Think
3.7 billion people carry HSV-1. 491 million carry HSV-2. Herpes is not curable, but with treatment from your doctor, most people live with infrequent or no outbreaks. The stigma is far worse than the condition itself.
worldwide (WHO)
How common is herpes in South Africa?
What is the difference between HSV-1 and HSV-2?
Most people think of herpes as one thing. In reality, there are two distinct viruses with different behaviours. Knowing which type you carry changes the conversation with your doctor and your partners.
| HSV-1 | HSV-2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Common name | Oral herpes / cold sores | Genital herpes |
| Primary location | Mouth and lips | Genitals, buttocks, thighs |
| Can it infect genitals? | Yes. Increasingly common through oral sex | Yes. Primary genital pathogen |
| How common? | 3.7 billion people (67% of under-50s) | 491 million people (13% of 15-49 year olds) |
| Recurrence rate | Low when genital. 1-2 outbreaks/year | Higher. 4-5 outbreaks/year initially |
| Asymptomatic shedding | Less frequent | More frequent (up to 10% of days) |
| How to test | PCR swab (active) or blood IgG | PCR swab (active) or blood IgG |
What are the symptoms of genital herpes?
Many people with herpes never develop noticeable symptoms, or have symptoms so mild they go unrecognised. Outbreaks vary widely between individuals.
"The biggest challenge with herpes is not the virus. It's the stigma. Most of my patients are relieved to learn how manageable it is. A huge proportion of the population carries HSV-1 without even knowing it. Knowing your type through a PCR test changes the conversation completely."Dr. Samantha Naidoo, MB ChB, FCP (SA), Medical Director, Epicentre
What happens if herpes is left unmanaged?
Herpes itself is rarely dangerous for healthy adults. But unmanaged herpes has real consequences, especially for HIV risk and pregnancy.
How is herpes tested at Epicentre?
Herpes requires different tests depending on whether you have active sores. Epicentre offers both methods and can distinguish HSV-1 from HSV-2.
Herpes HSV-1 & HSV-2 Typing
Standalone herpes test. Lesion swab (active) or blood IgG (past). Distinguishes type 1 from type 2.
Medium PCR (9 pathogens) ⭐
HSV-1 + HSV-2 included alongside chlamydia, gonorrhoea, mycoplasma, ureaplasma, trichomoniasis, E. coli.
Express STI (blood panel)
Herpes IgM (blood) + HIV, syphilis, chlamydia Ab, hepatitis B. Fastest results: 24hr urgent available.
Herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2) is included in all Epicentre PCR sexual health packages from R1,235. View all packages →
Herpes: Your Questions Answered
Can you have herpes without symptoms?
Yes. Many people carry herpes for years without a noticeable outbreak. Asymptomatic shedding means you can transmit the virus even without visible sores. A blood test can confirm infection when no sores are present.
Is herpes curable?
No, but it is very manageable. Treatment from your doctor controls outbreaks and reduces transmission risk. Most people find outbreaks become less frequent and milder over time.
Can I get genital herpes from oral sex?
Yes. HSV-1 (cold sores) can be transmitted to the genitals through oral sex. This is an increasingly common cause of genital herpes, especially in young adults.
Does herpes increase HIV risk?
Yes, 2-3 times higher. Active herpes sores create entry points for HIV. Managing herpes reduces this risk. Testing for herpes is also an HIV prevention strategy.
When should I test: swab or blood?
Active sores: PCR swab (most accurate during an outbreak). No sores: Blood IgG test (detects past infection, needs 3+ months after exposure). Epicentre offers both.
Can I still have a normal sex life with herpes?
Absolutely. Most people with herpes have fulfilling relationships and sex lives. Treatment from your doctor, condoms, and honest communication with partners are the key tools. Herpes is incredibly common and far more manageable than the stigma suggests.
How much does herpes testing cost?
Standalone herpes typing: R538. Express STI (blood, includes herpes IgM): R1,076. Medium PCR (includes HSV-1 + HSV-2): R1,508. Students 10% off. Payflex 4× interest-free. View all packages →
Other infections in this guide
Know Your Type. Know Your Status.
Herpes is far more common and more manageable than the stigma suggests. A simple test gives you clarity.
