Medical information Clinical review pending

Infection Testing

Herpes Simplex Virus HSV 1 Antibodies Panel IgG IgM Serum Test

Detects antibodies for Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1) to help diagnose current or past infections. This test measures both IgM (recent infection) and IgG (past exposure) antibodies.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample: Serum (Blood sample)
Results: Same day results for samples collected on Tuesday and Friday by 9 am. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation: No special preparation is required for this test.

Test priceKSh 3,042

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the Herpes Simplex Virus HSV 1 Antibodies Panel IgG IgM Serum Test test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
A clinician's request / prescription for the test
Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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Mobile number *

+254

Insurer or scheme

Policy / member number (optional)

Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

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Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

✓Presence of sores or blisters in the mouth or genital area.
✓History of sexual contact with someone diagnosed with herpes.
✓Recurrent outbreaks of sores or blisters.
✓Individuals with weakened immune systems.
✓Screening for HSV-1 exposure.
✓Diagnosis of neonatal herpes (in specific clinical contexts).

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test aids in the diagnosis of Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1) infection by detecting the presence of specific antibodies (IgM and IgG) in the blood. It helps differentiate between recent and past exposure to the virus.

The Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is a common virus causing infections, often around the mouth or genitals. The Herpes Simplex Virus HSV 1 Antibodies Panel IgG IgM Serum Test helps determine if you have been exposed to HSV-1 and if your body has developed antibodies. This is important for understanding symptoms and managing the condition. This test measures specific IgG and IgM antibodies against HSV-1. IgM antibodies typically indicate a recent infection, while IgG antibodies suggest a past exposure or immunity. Understanding your status can help guide treatment and prevent transmission. We offer this test at our branches across major Kenyan cities and provide a convenient home sample collection service. Contact us to book your test.

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

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A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →

PreparationNo special preparation is required for this test.

SampleSerum (Blood sample)

MethodologyImmunoassay (e.g., ELISA or Chemiluminescence Immunoassay) to detect and quantify HSV-1 specific IgG and IgM antibodies.

PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.

Antibody tests can sometimes show false positives or false negatives. IgM antibodies may persist for several months after infection. IgG antibodies indicate exposure but not necessarily active infection. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.

Read your report

What common result terms mean

TermPlain-language meaning

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.

NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.

VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

This test detects antibodies (IgM and IgG) specific to the Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1) in your blood.

IgM antibodies usually indicate a recent or current infection, while IgG antibodies suggest a past infection or exposure.

No, fasting is not required for this test.

Results are typically available the same day for samples collected on Tuesday and Friday by 9 am. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.

This test detects antibodies, which indicate exposure or infection, not necessarily active sores. Other tests like viral culture or PCR may be needed to diagnose active lesions.

Insurance coverage varies. Please check with your insurance provider regarding coverage for this specific test.

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

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Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

Last updated: September 27, 2026
Medical review: not yet completed
Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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