If you do have oral HSV 1, you could transmit it to a partner, even if you have no lesions. That’s correct.
The percentages picked up refer to sensitivity, not specificity. Regardless of the stated sensitivity for HSV 1, the reality is less. At least in my experience and the experience of other herpes experts.
Outbreaks can occur in different places on the lips and they can look different from each other.
Having HSV 1 does not stop you from getting HSV 2, no. HSV 2 does stop you from getting HSV 1, however.
I’m not clear how to get a western blot in Canada except to have blood drawn there and sent to UW. I don’t think we can help you at the clinic with a Canada draw, I am sorry to say.
Terri