Return for results after herpes simplex virus type 2 screening

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate factors associated with return for results of type-specific herpes simplex virus (HSV) screening. Methods: Participants receiving type-specific HSV testing were asked to return for results 2 weeks after testing. Predictors of return included demographics, herpes-related knowledge and attitudes, and past sexual behaviors. Results: A total of 820 sexually active subjects (age, 14-30 years; 41% male) received HSV screening and 578 (70%) returned for results. Higher probability of return for HSV testing results was significantly associated with older age (odds ratio [OR], 1.06), female gender (OR, 1.57), enrollment at sites other than the county sexually transmitted disease clinic (OR, 1.70-4.71), and heightened level of perceived HSV vulnerability (OR, 1.07). Lower probability of return was associated with having more than 1 recent sex partner (OR, 0.46). Conclusions: Lower rates of return of high-risk patients suggest the need to focus resources on receipt of test results.