Human Herpes Virus – 8 by PCR
Professional, confidential testing for Human Herpes Virus – 8 by PCR. Book your appointment at our City of London clinic for fast, accurate results.
Book your test at our City of London clinic.
Price
£235
+ £50 blood draw
- Results within 5 days"
- Confidential service
- No GP referral needed
- Professional clinical environment
- Results via secure portal
- Nurse-led expert care
City of London Clinic
Herpes Testing
Herpes is extremely common and manageable. Testing helps you understand your status.
- Very common – many people don't know they have it
- Knowledge empowers better health decisions
- Knowing your status helps protect partners
- Can be managed effectively long-term
- Reduces anxiety and uncertainty
100% Confidential
Your privacy is protected
Fast Results
Results within 5 days"
Expert Care
Professional clinical team
Accurate Testing
Lab-certified results
About the Human Herpes Virus – 8 by PCR
The Human Herpes Virus – 8 by PCR is a confidential sexual health test available at St Paul's Medical and Dental, our private practice at 5 Ave Maria Lane in the City of London, EC4M 7AQ. A blood sample is collected by a registered nurse in an appointment of approximately 20 minutes. Results are typically available within 5 days" and are delivered confidentially via secure email.
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) exists as two types: HSV-1, which is traditionally associated with oral herpes, and HSV-2, which is more commonly associated with genital herpes, although either type can infect either location. The World Health Organisation estimates that approximately 3.7 billion people under 50 globally have HSV-1 infection. Many individuals with herpes are unaware of their status because the infection can be asymptomatic or produce mild symptoms that are not recognised. Blood tests detect IgG and IgM antibodies to HSV, while PCR swab testing can identify active viral shedding from lesions. Type-specific testing can distinguish between HSV-1 and HSV-2.
St Paul's Medical and Dental is within walking distance of St Paul's tube station, Blackfriars, and City Thameslink. The clinic is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm, making it convenient for City workers and local residents. All samples are processed by an accredited laboratory. Your appointment is entirely confidential, and results are delivered securely via email.
Who May Consider This Test
The Human Herpes Virus – 8 by PCR at our City of London clinic may be suitable for a variety of individuals. Below are some of the common reasons patients book this test:
- Individuals who have experienced genital blisters or sores
- Those whose partner has disclosed a herpes diagnosis
- People with recurrent symptoms of genital irritation or tingling
- Individuals who wish to know their HSV-1 and HSV-2 status
- Those seeking a baseline measurement before a new relationship
How to Prepare
Stay well hydrated
Drinking water before your appointment helps make veins easier to locate, making the blood draw quicker and more comfortable.
Consider the testing window period
Each test has a recommended minimum time from potential exposure for accurate results. If you are unsure whether enough time has passed, our clinical team can advise you at your appointment.
Continue any current medications
Unless advised otherwise by your prescribing doctor, continue taking your regular medications as normal before the test.
Attend your appointment
Arrive at St Paul's Medical and Dental, 5 Ave Maria Lane, EC4M 7AQ with your booking confirmation. The nearest stations are St Paul's, Blackfriars, and City Thameslink. Your appointment takes approximately 20 minutes.
Pricing
The phlebotomy fee is charged once per visit, regardless of the number of tests booked. Payment is collected at the clinic.
Sample Information
Your Results
Your results will indicate whether the tested infection was detected. If a positive result is returned, we recommend booking a follow-up consultation or discussing the findings with your GP or sexual health clinician.
How It Works
Book Online
Choose a convenient date and time
Visit Clinic
Quick and discreet appointment
Sample Collection
Professional, comfortable process
Get Results
Results within 5 days"
Frequently Asked Questions
The appointment takes approximately 20 minutes. This includes registration, sample collection, and any questions you may have.
You May Also Be Interested In
Other sexual health tests you may want to consider alongside the Human Herpes Virus – 8 by PCR
What Our Patients Say
Real feedback from our patients at South Kensington Medical & Dental.
Meet Our Medical Team
Our experienced medical team is fully qualified and registered with the GMC and NMC, delivering safe, high-quality care in line with the highest professional standards.
Because our patients deserve nothing less.
Registered. Regulated. Trusted.
South Kensington Medical & Dental is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and our clinicians are registered with the relevant UK regulatory bodies, including the GDC and GMC. Our dentists, dental nurses and medical professionals deliver care that meets the highest clinical, safety and ethical standards, because our patients deserve nothing less.
