Hi all-

I've had a bit of feedback on this issue, so thought I'd let you know... I haven't actually seen any other Canadian posts - but if there are a few of you out there, here's what I found out.

Turns out, Type Specific Tests ARE available. It's wierd though. When I called the labs, some of them really didn't know what I was talking about. Most labs here really don't do it. However, I did contact one lab, and they said they do it. The labs were also very cranky about talking to me at all - here (in Canada) they operate strictly through the Dr's, and don't talk to "people" at all. I was told several times to ask my Dr - persistence pays off!

Strangely, they wouldn't give me a name for the test. I am simply to go back to my doctor and have him specifically write on the serology form "specify Type 1 or Type 2" or something to that effect. HerpesSelect etc. are not words that compute here.

It seems really odd to me that this type of testing wouldn't automatically be done, especially if the doctor KNOWS you have herpes. But it's considered unimportant information.

Anyway, I'm going back to my doctor in a week or so. I will then educate him on Herpes - I'm convinced that by now I know more than he does!! :)

Thanks for the feedback. I will feel so much more comfortable once I know that myself and my partner have the same type etc. etc. etc. And if we don't or he doesn't have it at all - at least then we'll know!

Great post Catharine. I really enjoy your writing. Keeping things clear and to the point, informative and able to make sense to the reader are sometimes difficult. Your doing a bang up job. I'm anxious right there with ya regarding your talk with your doctor. Good luck and keep us posted.

Howdy California -

Ditto - Strange isn't it how sometimes, even on anonymous chat boards, you can relate better to some people - just like real life, go fig!

And your right - clarity is everything when writing someplace like this - if only to get the answer you need!!

Cheers!