Thinking about joining the military or already serving and just diagnosed with herpes? The short answer: herpes alone typically does not disqualify you from military service. Here’s what you need to know.
Does herpes disqualify you from joining the military?
Let’s get the big question out of the way: herpes is generally not a disqualifying condition for military enlistment. Herpes simplex is not listed as a disqualifying condition in Department of Defense medical standards. In plain English: herpes won't keep you out.
The military is primarily concerned with conditions that would prevent you from completing training or performing your duties. Since herpes is a manageable condition that most people experience as mild, infrequent outbreaks (or no outbreaks at all), it does not meet that threshold.
What happens at MEPS?
MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station) is where you undergo your medical examination before enlistment. Here’s what to know:
- MEPS does not test for herpes. The standard blood work at MEPS screens for HIV and may include other STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea, but herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2) is not part of the standard screening panel.
- You will be asked about your medical history. The medical questionnaire asks about current and past conditions. If you have herpes, being honest is important, but understand that disclosing herpes does not automatically disqualify you.
- If you have an active outbreak during your MEPS exam, you may be asked to return after it has healed. An active outbreak could temporarily delay your processing, but it won’t permanently disqualify you.
Herpes during active service
If you’re already serving and get diagnosed with herpes (or if you knew before enlisting) here’s what to expect:
- It will not affect your career. Herpes is not grounds for discharge, demotion, or disciplinary action.
- You can access medication. Military healthcare covers antiviral medications like valacyclovir (Valtrex) and acyclovir. You can get both episodic treatment (for outbreaks) and daily suppressive therapy through military pharmacies.
- Your medical records are confidential. HIPAA applies in military healthcare. Your herpes diagnosis is between you and your medical provider.
Deployment with herpes
Herpes does not prevent deployment. Antiviral medications are readily available through military pharmacies and can be included in your deployment medical supplies. Here are the practical considerations:
- Ensure you have enough medication. Before deployment, work with your military healthcare provider to make sure you have an adequate supply of antivirals.
- Stress management matters. Deployment is stressful, and stress is a common outbreak trigger. Having medication on hand and being aware of your prodrome symptoms helps you manage proactively.
- Extreme environments. Heat, sun exposure, and physical exhaustion can trigger outbreaks. Daily suppressive therapy may be particularly helpful during deployment.
Special operations and herpes
For special operations roles (SEALs, Rangers, Special Forces, etc.), the medical screening is more rigorous. However, herpes alone is still generally not disqualifying. The concern would be if herpes caused severe, frequent outbreaks that could impair performance during critical operations, but with modern antiviral medication, this is rarely an issue.
If you’re pursuing a special operations career and concerned about herpes, speak with a military healthcare provider who understands the specific medical requirements for your desired role.
The bottom line
Herpes does not end a military career, and it shouldn’t prevent one from starting. The military views it as a common, manageable condition. Millions of service members carry the virus and serve with distinction.
If you’re feeling anxious about how herpes fits into your military aspirations, the facts are solidly on your side. Get your facts straight, get your meds sorted, and go do what you're called to do. You've got this. :)
For more, download our free e-book on living confidently with herpes.
