Can you have herpes without knowing it?

Can you have herpes without knowing it?

Many people associate herpes with visible, painful blisters – but did you know that the vast majority of people infected have no symptoms? In fact, it’s estimated that up to 80% of people with herpes simplex virus (HSV-2) don’t know they’re infected. The same is true for many people with HSV-1, especially when it’s in the genitals.

 

So yes – you can have herpes without knowing it. In this blog post we explain why, how it is detected, and what it means for infection and health.

Why don't you always feel anything?

The herpes virus can hide in the body's nerves and be completely inactive for long periods. When the virus is not active, you have no symptoms – but it can still be present. This is called latent infection.

For many, the virus is activated once and then never again. Others experience small, mild symptoms that may resemble skin irritation, rashes or pimples – and therefore never realize it is herpes.

Asymptomatic viral shedding: You can be contagious without an outbreak

One of the most complex aspects of herpes is that you can be contagious without having an outbreak. This is called asymptomatic viral shedding, and it means that the virus is shed from your skin or mucous membranes for short periods of time, even if you don't have blisters, sores, or other signs.
• The risk is highest with HSV-2 in the genital area
• Up to 10% of days, people with HSV-2 can be contagious without an outbreak
• Using condoms and antiviral medication can reduce the risk of infection

Typical symptoms – when they are there

Those who develop symptoms typically experience:
• Small fluid-filled blisters that burst and turn into ulcers
• Tingling, itching, or burning before the outbreak
• Swollen lymph nodes and possibly fever (especially during the first outbreak)
• Pain when urinating (genital herpes)

If you have never had these symptoms, it does not necessarily mean that you are not infected.

How can one get tested?

There are two ways to get tested for herpes:
1. Swab from sores: If you have an outbreak, your doctor may take a sample.
2. Blood test: Shows whether you have antibodies to HSV-1 and/or HSV-2. However, it does not tell you where on your body you are infected.
The blood test may be relevant if you have a partner with known herpes and want to know if you are already infected.

What does this mean in practice?

If you are sexually active, there is a high probability that you have been in contact with herpes – especially HSV-1, which up to 70% of Europeans carry. But because herpes is often so discreet, it is only discovered if you get tested or have a visible outbreak.

Conclusion

Yes, it's possible—and even very common—to have herpes without knowing it. It's not dangerous for most people, but that makes education and openness more important than ever. If you don't know, you can't protect your partner.

Consider testing if you have any doubts – and remember that herpes is far more common than you think.