Can HSV-1 be transmitted?

Question

Hello doctor,

I tested 49.40 positive for HSV 1. I am wondering if such a high result is indicative of a recent or past infection. If it is a recent infection, I can only think back to two instances where I might have gotten infected. One was last year. Are my results consistent with these dates? Additionally, given this positive result, how likely am I to transmit this to my partner if no cold sores are present? If this is an old infection I have never developed any cold sores, or symptoms, as far as I can remember. I also did not test positive for HSV-2. Lastly, is the use of antiviral medication recommended for my case?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through the details provided from your end and I do understand your concern. HSV (herpes simplex virus) 1 IgG (immunoglobulin G) is indicative of past infection which may have happened months or even years back. HSV 1 can also be seen during childhood. As you have mentioned of not having sores, the possibility of being asymptomatic is also there. HSV 1 sometimes does not show any symptoms but may remain within the nerves for a longer time. They may be transmitted through direct contact with an infected individual or by sharing their belongings. It can also be transmitted from mother to child during childbirth and may be acquired later in life whenever immunity is compromised. Since HSV 1 IgG is reactive which is a sign of a previous infection, no treatment is required for the same. However, it is important to make sure to avoid the possible risk factors that may trigger the dormant virus present within the nerves.

Possible risk factors:

Reduced immunity.
Fever.
Location changes.
Stress.
During menstruation.
Sleep irregularities.
Sudden body changes during minor or major surgeries and so on.

Make sure to eat healthy, and consume zinc acetate tablets for immunity. Unfortunately, once infected with HSV it does not have a cure but can only managed symptomatically and keep yourself as healthy and immune as possible to prevent them from being triggered. Transmission even without symptoms is possible to an extent. However, since they are currently dormant and not active, the chances of infecting a close contact are almost nil. I would advise you to get your partner or very close contacts checked and tested to rule the possibility of HSV out.

Hope I could be of help.