Transmission risk

[anon324]

I am a female and have had ghsv1 for over 20 years with no outbreaks since initial. My new male partner has had hsv for 15 years but doesn’t know which type. He has an occasional outbreak once every couple years. I’m assuming he had hsv 2 until he finds out. Currently he isn’t taking an antiviral. I’m wondering, what is the approximate risk in this case of having unprotected sex with him of me getting hsv 2 (assuming that’s the type he has).
If he takes antivirals is the risk significantly lower? Since I already have hsv1 does it offer me any protection from hsv2?
Thank you!

[anon324]

Hi Terri,

I have an additional update and question. I got my Covid booster a couple days ago and the morning after started noticing I had an outbreak- which would be my first in nearly 20 years. Have you heard of this happening for other people? Also, I haven’t actually been with my partner for the past month. Any possibility this could be a new infection? Do it think I should get re tested? Thank you.

[Terri Warren]

I think your partner should be tested to see what type of herpes he has.
Daily antivirals reduce transmission by 48% and condoms reduce transmission by 96% from males to females. if he is positive for HSV 2, then you need to decide how much risk you are willing to take and whether condoms should be used in your situation or not.

Any outbreak at this point should be swab tested and typed.

Terri

[anon324]

Thanks Terri, That is helpful. Since I’m traveling now, I may not be able to get swab tested with my current outbreak. Would it be worth getting a blood test when I return if it’s resolved by then?

[Terri Warren]

Yes, if you wait 10-12 weeks after any encounter at which you could have acquired HSV 2.

Terri

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