Can You Get Herpes Without an Outbreak?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 40 million Americans have had genital herpes, a sexually transmitted disease caused by the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2).

Features

Most people who contract genital herpes are unaware they have the virus, the CDC reports.

Types

Some people who contract HSV-2 never develop symptoms, while others develop mild symptoms or confuse their symptoms with other rashes, according to the CDC.

Effects

The ability to transfer herpes even if you are symptom-free and have never had an outbreak is called asymptomatic or subclinical viral shedding.

Symptoms

Individuals who develop itching or pain, followed by bumps that become sores around the genitals, should not ignore these symptoms. A diagnosis of genital herpes helps individuals manage their symptoms and protect others.

Identification

People who think they may have contracted HSV-2 can have blood tests or a culture taken to diagnose the condition, according to the Mayo Clinic.

References

• CDC: Genital Herpes Symptoms
• Mayo Clinic: Genital Herpes Test