Disclosure confusion, legal, and antiviral resistance

[MkJ]

Hi Terri. After a high igg hsv-1 result sans symptoms (just random full panel) I requested antivirals (even though PCP finds them unnecessary I take 1g daily). I have have many doctors, including an infectious disease doc with hsv-1 say that it is not pertinent to share and I have no history of OB.

Many doctors I have followed up with have made me feel I am distressed for no reason. like this is nothing (not a sti) and that I should have never been tested, have never been symptomatic, and did not see disclosure as necessary/advised as that test “tells you nothing” aside from general previous exposure.

Now I’ve had a new partner go radio silent after an unprotected (aside from antivirals) sexual encounter and I fear the worst – that my information is all false and I should have disclosed. Transmutation is more possibly. I’ve heard I can be legally sued for not disclosing. I feel misinformed, irresponsible, and scared. I do not wish to obfuscate, but can I ask his status without disclosing mine. Have you heard of putting off legal records? I’m so confused, scared,and feeling like an awful human being. What do you think my next steps should be and do you understand any legalities or have referrals around possible communication with that partner and possibly legal support. Heartbroken.

[Terri Warren]

You ask a very interesting question without simple answers.
First, I assume you’ve never had a cold sore on your lip or nose, correct? The most common presentation of HSV 1 is a cold sore in one of those locations. About half the US population is infected with HSV 1.

Second, a positive HSV 1 antibody test that is accurate, and a high number here is almost always accurate, means that you are infected and potentially infectious to others. It means way more than being exposed.

Since you have no symptoms either orally or genitally, it is not possible to know the location of your infection, but if you ever get a symptom either orally or genitally, you need to have it swab tested to see if it is HSV 1.

Whether you need to disclose your HSV 1 status is the subject of much discussion, and I don’t think there is a perfect answer, and not even experts agree fully.

I recommend that you disclose your status (I have the cold sore virus) before giving oral sex to anyone, as the oral infection is more likely than genital. If you do have this genitally, it is rarely shed and unlikely to be transmitted via intercourse after you’ve been infected for a while.

There is no perfect answer here, I’m afraid.

Terri

[Michelle Nin]

I think you answered your own question when you said you feel irresponsible and scared. You clearly are a person with morals, who wants to do the right thing. And not get anyone sick, on the off-chance that you do spread it to someone who doesn’t have it.

If you NEVER get sores, maybe you just need to pick the best wording and delivery, for how to tell someone. Also, if most ppl have HAD cold sores… they won’t care.
I wish you the best of luck. And send you strength for whatever you decide.
I know it’s an awful feeling. I’m in this predicament myself. And trust me, I wish I could re-do my life.

[Terri Warren]

MKJ, the response given above does not decrease the number of post that you can do
Terri

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