Debate: the argument for. Should every STD clinic patient be considered for type-specific serological screening for...

The arguments against screening for all individuals attending sexually transmitted disease and genitourinary medicine clinics for herpes simplex virus may seem compelling, but an examination of the facts indicate that the case in favour is strong. While no screening test is perfect, testing can confirm the diagnosis, improve management, help to reduce the risk of transmission - including to the newborn - and assist in the development of public health strategies. Not least, patients want to know whether or not they are infected. In this article we look at the arguments in favour of screening.