Is Negative Herpes Test After One Month Of Possible Exposure Conclusive?

Posted on Mon, 8 Jun 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 8 Jun 2015 Answered on

Wed, 24 Jun 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : What are Odds of me getting a false negative herpes test because i took the test a month too early? I read you need to wait 12 to 16 weeks after exposure. I took test after 8 week and was negative. I am petrified i got a false negative. Please help!!

Answered by Dr. Ralf Von Seckendorff (19 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
False negative less likely, DNA Test more precise anyways

Detailed Answer:
Dear patient,

After 8 weeks there is still a chance of false negative result but that should be low. The DNA (PCR) Blood test can give you more precise information since it detects virus DNA.

Hope this is helping you, if you have any clarifications you can get back to me, if this was helpful please kindly rate my answer. Best regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj