Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) home lesion swab kit with sterile collection tools and transport tube for professional PCR analysis of oral and genital sores.

All Tests

Herpes-simplex HSV 1 and 2 test kit

Name: Herpes-simplex HSV 1 and 2 test kit
Brand: Medi Test Direct
SKU: TDL (HERS)
Price: 75.00 GBP
Availability: InStock

Biomarkers Tested

HSV-1 (Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1), HSV-2 (Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2)

£75.00 ✓ In Stock

Results ready within 2 working days

UKAS accredited laboratory, ISO 15189.

2 biomarkers 2 working days Swab sample

Home test kit —

CQC registered Accredited UK labs ISO 15189

How it works

Your testing journey

From order to results in four simple steps. Full transparency on where each step happens and what it costs.

Receive your kit by post

Dispatched same working day if ordered before 3pm. Royal Mail Tracked delivery, typically 1–3 working days. 90% of kits arrive within 24 hours.

Collect at home

Everything you need is in the kit. Collect your sample in the privacy of your own home — no appointment needed, no clinic visit.

Included in kit price

Self-swab at home

Gently rub the sterile swab in the area indicated in your instructions, place it back in the tube, and post it back. Takes under a minute.

Return by prepaid envelope

Seal your sample in the biohazard bag provided and drop it in any Royal Mail postbox using the prepaid Tracked 24 envelope. Post Monday–Thursday for best results.

Find out if you have herpes simplex virus (HSV) with a simple self-collected swab test. This test detects both HSV-1 and HSV-2 from active lesions, helping you understand which type of herpes you may have and guiding your treatment options.

Herpes simplex is a very common viral infection. HSV-1 traditionally causes oral herpes (cold sores), while HSV-2 typically causes genital herpes—but either type can infect either location. Once you have herpes, the virus stays in your body for life, though outbreaks can be managed effectively with antiviral medication.

This swab test works by collecting a sample directly from an active sore or blister. It's important to test during an outbreak when lesions are present, as this gives the most accurate results. The test uses a simple self-swab kit you can use at home.

Why Test for Herpes?

Know which type you have – HSV-1 and HSV-2 have different implications
Guide treatment decisions – Antiviral medication can reduce outbreaks
Protect your partners – Understand when you're most contagious
Peace of mind – Confirm whether symptoms are herpes or something else
Discreet home testing – Self-collect your sample in private
Results in 5 working days – From sample arrival at the laboratory

Which Test Should You Choose?

Choose the test based on where your lesion (sore or blister) is located. You need to swab an active lesion for accurate results.

Choose Your Test

▼

Genital Lesion Swab

Best for: Testing sores or blisters in the genital area

A self-collected swab from an active genital lesion to test for HSV-1 and HSV-2. This test confirms whether genital symptoms are caused by herpes.

Sample type: Self-collected swab from genital sore or blister
Where to swab: Directly on the sore, blister, or ulcer in the genital area
Best timing: During an active outbreak when lesions are fresh (ideally within the first 48 hours)
Detects: Both HSV-1 and HSV-2

Oral Lesion Swab

Best for: Testing cold sores or blisters around the mouth

A self-collected swab from an active oral lesion (cold sore) to test for HSV-1 and HSV-2. This test confirms whether mouth sores are caused by herpes.

Sample type: Self-collected swab from oral sore or blister
Where to swab: Directly on the cold sore, blister, or ulcer on or around the lips/mouth
Best timing: During an active outbreak when lesions are fresh (ideally within the first 48 hours)
Detects: Both HSV-1 and HSV-2

Important: This swab test requires an active lesion (sore, blister, or ulcer) to collect a sample from. If you don't currently have visible symptoms, a swab test may not detect the virus. For testing without active symptoms, a blood test for HSV antibodies may be more appropriate.

HSV-1 vs HSV-2: What's the Difference?

HSV-1 (Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1)

Traditionally causes oral herpes (cold sores)
Very common—most people are infected in childhood
Can also cause genital herpes through oral sex
Genital HSV-1 typically causes fewer and less severe outbreaks

HSV-2 (Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2)

Primarily causes genital herpes
Usually transmitted through sexual contact
More likely to cause recurrent genital outbreaks
Can also cause oral herpes, though less common

Knowing which type you have helps predict future outbreaks and guides discussions with partners.

Results in 5 working days

Results are available within 5 working days from the sample arriving at the laboratory.

Action Required: Once your order confirmation arrives, please reply to the email with your date of birth. This helps us process your order quickly and avoid any delays.

How It Works

We'll send you a collection kit with a swab, clear instructions, and a prepaid return envelope. When you have an active lesion, use the swab to collect a sample directly from the sore, then post it back to us.

Your kit includes: Sterile swab, collection tube, step-by-step instructions, and prepaid return envelope.

Tips for best results:

Swab the lesion as soon as possible after it appears (ideally within 48 hours)
Fresh blisters or sores give the most accurate results
If the blister has crusted over, results may be less reliable
Rub the swab firmly over the lesion for 5–10 seconds

Symptoms of Herpes

▼

Herpes symptoms vary from person to person. Some people have frequent outbreaks, while others may have only one or none at all.

During an Outbreak

Small blisters that break open and leave painful sores
Tingling, itching, or burning before blisters appear
Pain when urinating (genital herpes)
Flu-like symptoms during first outbreak (fever, body aches, swollen lymph nodes)

Oral Herpes (Cold Sores)

Blisters or sores on or around the lips
Tingling or burning sensation before sores appear
Sores typically heal within 7–10 days

Genital Herpes

Blisters or sores on genitals, buttocks, or thighs
Pain or itching in the genital area
Pain when urinating
First outbreak is usually the most severe

Living with Herpes

▼

Herpes is a very common and manageable condition. While there's no cure, many people live normal, healthy lives with few or no symptoms.

Treatment Options

Antiviral medication – Can shorten outbreaks and reduce severity
Suppressive therapy – Daily antivirals to prevent outbreaks
Pain relief – Over-the-counter painkillers for discomfort

Reducing Transmission

Avoid sexual contact during outbreaks
Use condoms (though they don't provide complete protection)
Consider suppressive therapy to reduce viral shedding
Talk openly with partners about your status

Outbreak Triggers

Stress and fatigue
Illness or weakened immune system
Sun exposure (for oral herpes)
Hormonal changes (menstruation)
Friction or skin irritation

Medical Disclaimer

This test is intended for screening purposes only and does not constitute a medical diagnosis. The swab test detects herpes simplex virus from active lesions; a negative result does not rule out herpes infection, particularly if the lesion is healing or crusted.

If you test positive for herpes, you should consult a healthcare professional to discuss treatment options and management strategies. Antiviral medication is available on prescription and can help reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks.

This test does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have symptoms or concerns about your sexual health, please consult your GP or visit a sexual health clinic.

Test During Active Lesions: This swab test is most accurate when active sores or blisters are present. Swab the lesion as soon as possible after it appears. If the lesion has already crusted over, detection rates decrease.

Sample Collection: Break the blister gently with the swab if possible, then roll the swab firmly over the base of the lesion for 5-10 seconds to collect cells. Place the swab in the transport tube immediately.

Sample Return: Post your sample the same day as collection. Avoid posting on Fridays or before bank holidays.

No Blood Test Alternative: This is a swab-based PCR test, not a blood test. Blood antibody tests for HSV exist but detect past exposure rather than active infection and cannot identify the location of infection.

Pick your panel

Browse over 200 clinically designed test kits and choose the one that fits your goals.

Kit to your door

Everything you need arrives in discreet packaging with step-by-step instructions inside.

Collect your sample

Follow the simple instructions in your kit - whether it is a finger-prick at home or a venous draw at a partner clinic, your test page will guide you.

Insights delivered

Clear, easy-to-understand results sent to you online with actionable health guidance.