HSV 1 IgG
How to prepare
You can eat and drink normally before the test.
No special preparation needed.
Tell our phlebotomist about any medicines you take. Don't stop them without asking your doctor.
Wear a loose sleeve so the sample can be taken easily from your arm.
How it works
About this test
HSV 1 IgG checks for past infection with herpes simplex virus type 1, which mainly causes cold sores around the mouth. Once infected, the virus stays in the body for life.
Why is this test done?
- Find past HSV-1 infection
- Look into repeated mouth or lip blisters
- Part of TORCH testing
Symptoms — when should you get tested?
- Painful blisters on lips or mouth
- Tingling before blisters appear
- Repeated cold sores
Normal range
Reference ranges differ slightly between labs, methods, age and sex. Always discuss your report with your doctor.
If your result is high
A positive IgG means you have been infected with HSV-1 at some time. Many adults are positive.
Common reasons- Past HSV-1 infection
How is the test done?
- 1Book online
Choose your slot for home collection or a visit to our centre.
- 2Blood sample taken
A trained phlebotomist takes a small blood sample from a vein in your arm with a sealed, single-use needle. It takes about 2 minutes.
- 3Tested in our lab
Your barcoded sample is tested on automated machines with strict quality checks.
- 4Report on WhatsApp
A pathologist checks the result and the report reaches you on WhatsApp and email.
Frequently asked questions
IgG cannot. IgM may suggest a recent infection.
No fasting is needed for this test. You can eat and drink normally.
Your report is usually ready in same day after the sample reaches our lab. We send it on WhatsApp and email, and you can also download it from the Reports page.
Please call our team to confirm whether home sample collection is available for your location and test.
This test needs a blood sample. No special preparation needed.