A couple of lab tests might be needed to distinguish herpes sores from other contagions. The best system of diagnosis is by viral culture. Not having sex is the best defense against herpes and other STDs. Herpes incisions may happen in areas that may be covered or guarded by a rubber, but they also may happen in areas that can't be covered or guarded by a condom. Analysis and help for people that have genital herpes is usually available from local health departments. For info on its programs, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to the center at P.O. Folks who have extraordinarily frequent episodes of the illness can take oral acyclovir daily for at least one year to suppress the virus' activity and prevent most recurrences.
