The Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) 1 & 2 IgG test is a laboratory test used to detect the presence of IgG antibodies specific to the herpes simplex virus in a patient’s blood sample. The test works by detecting the body’s immune response to the virus, which is indicated by the presence of IgG antibodies. HSV-1 and HSV-2 are viruses that cause oral and genital herpes, respectively, and are transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. The IgG test is typically used to diagnose past HSV infections, as IgG antibodies can persist in the blood for the lifetime of the individual following infection. The test can also be used to identify individuals who are at risk for HSV infections or to determine whether someone has been exposed to the virus. A positive result from the IgG test indicates that the person has been infected with either HSV-1 or HSV-2 at some point in their life, but does not necessarily indicate that they have a current infection. Overall, the HSV-1 & 2 IgG test is a valuable tool in the diagnosis and management of HSV infections, and can help identify populations at risk for infection and guide prevention strategies.