Where To Get a Reliable Herpes Test in Tampa, FL

Herpes is a common virus that can cause itchy blisters and painful sores to develop around your mouth or genitals. The virus spreads through activities that involve skin-to-skin contact with an affected area of your body, such as kissing and sexual intercourse.

Once you are infected with herpes, the virus will remain in your body for life, although its symptoms will typically come and go. While herpes is most contagious when open, wet sores are present, the virus can also “shed” and infect others even when there are no visible sores.

How Do You Know if You Have Herpes?

In many cases, a herpes outbreak occurs within two to 20 days after infection, and the sores generally last two to four weeks. Repeat outbreaks are common, especially during the first year, although the initial outbreak is usually the worst. A few days before a symptom flare-up, you might notice some warning signs, such as itching, burning, and tingling sensations around your mouth or genitals.

Because herpes symptoms can be similar to those of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), the only way to know for sure if you are infected is to be tested.

What Does Herpes Testing Involve?

If you have sores, a medical professional can gently use a swab to get a fluid sample, which can then be tested in a lab for the herpes simplex virus. If you do not have sores, your provider will ask about your health history and symptoms and then help you decide whether a blood test for herpes makes sense for you.

Herpes testing and other forms of STI testing are not automatically included in a regular health checkup or gynecologic exam. Instead, you must specifically ask to be tested.

For the peace of mind you need and deserve, turn to South Tampa Immediate Care in Tampa, FL, for a herpes test. Just stop by when it’s most convenient for you. Or, if you’d like to take advantage of our telemedicine services, book a virtual visit today. With us, there’s absolutely no need to feel intimidated or embarrassed. Our discreet and professional staff is here to help you, not judge you.