Get tested by a healthcare professional; symptoms alone cannot confirm herpes
Watch for painful blisters or sores on the mouth, genitals, anus, buttocks, or thighs
Notice tingling, itching, burning, or pain before sores appear
Look for flu-like symptoms during a first outbreak, such as fever, body aches, or swollen lymph nodes
Pay attention to pain during urination if sores are near the urethra
Check for recurrent outbreaks in the same area
Consider that some people have no symptoms at all
Seek medical care if you think you were exposed or have any suspicious sores
Avoid sexual contact until you have been evaluated and tested
Ask about herpes PCR or culture testing from a fresh sore
Ask about blood tests for herpes antibodies if no sores are present
Get urgent care if you have severe pain, trouble urinating, eye symptoms, or are pregnant and think you may have herpes