1) I test positive for HSV-2
Correct
2) to the best of my knowledge I have never had any outbreak/symptoms (or so minor I did not notice and
I’m pretty aware) which means based on statistics that it is most likely genital HSV-2 (vs oral HSV-2)
and at this point there really is not a practical way to know this for sure
Correct. Remember to look for symptoms from waist to mid thigh, the boxer shorts area
3) to the best of my ability to get tested I am negative for HSV-1 and now since I already have
HSV-2 it is very unlikely that I will ever acquire HSV-1 at this point
Correct
4) given my sexual history when I was younger and the prevalence of HSV-1 in general, it is quite
possible I have been positive for HSV-2 for quite some time and just never knew because I had no
symptoms and did not specifically get tested until relatively recently
Correct or the ELISA test missed it. 9% chance the test missed it.
5) I still have some anxiety around infecting any potential new partner even if I have done “the talk”
and allowed them to choose…
That’s completely understandable and that won’t resolve completely probably ever. As long as you are open and share the information that you know fully, I honestly believe that is your sum of your responsibility. Well, that and taking daily medication and being aware of symptoms and perhaps using condoms, depending upon what you and your partner decide.
Yes, the research has looked at the CD8 cells in particular, regarding this topic of LTR partners. It would not be detectable normally in an uninfected partner, that’s a very very specialized kind of testing.
I believe we have once again exhausted our questions but I am here for you if you need more questions answered.
Terri