Why get tested?
To screen for or diagnose infection with the herpes simplex virus

When to get tested?
If you have symptoms of an infection with the herpes simplex virus, such as blisters in the genital area, sores in the oral cavity, or symptoms of viral meningitis

Sample required?
A swab or scraping from a blister or sore in the infected area or a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm; for meningitis or encephalitis, a sample of cerebrospinal fluid