Does Herpes Disqualify You from the Military?
The United States military has strict guidelines for enlisting and commissioning new recruits. One of the most common concerns for potential military personnel is whether their medical history, including herpes, will disqualify them from serving. In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and provide a comprehensive overview of the military’s stance on herpes.
Does Herpes Disqualify You from the Military?
The short answer is: it depends. The military has specific guidelines for herpes, and whether it disqualifies you from service depends on the type of herpes, the severity of the outbreak, and the individual’s overall health.
Types of Herpes
There are two main types of herpes: Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1) and Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV-2). HSV-1 is typically associated with cold sores and fever blisters, while HSV-2 is associated with genital herpes.
Military Guidelines for Herpes
The military has specific guidelines for herpes, which are outlined in the Department of Defense Instruction 6130.03, Medical Standards for Military Service. According to this instruction, individuals with a history of herpes are considered conditionally acceptable for military service, meaning they may be allowed to serve with certain restrictions.
Conditional Acceptance
To be considered conditionally acceptable, individuals with a history of herpes must meet the following criteria:
- No active outbreak: The individual must not have an active outbreak of herpes at the time of enlistment or commissioning.
- No recurrence: The individual must not have a history of frequent or severe recurrences of herpes.
- No complications: The individual must not have any complications related to herpes, such as meningitis or encephalitis.
Medical Clearance
Individuals with a history of herpes must undergo a medical evaluation to determine their suitability for military service. The medical evaluation will assess the individual’s overall health, including their herpes history, and determine whether they meet the military’s medical standards.
Military Branch-Specific Guidelines
Each military branch has its own guidelines for herpes, which may vary slightly from the Department of Defense’s guidelines. Here is a breakdown of the guidelines for each branch:
| Military Branch | Guidelines |
|---|---|
| Army | Individuals with a history of herpes are considered conditionally acceptable for military service. |
| Navy | Individuals with a history of herpes are considered conditionally acceptable for military service, but must undergo a medical evaluation to determine their suitability. |
| Air Force | Individuals with a history of herpes are considered conditionally acceptable for military service, but must undergo a medical evaluation to determine their suitability. |
| Marine Corps | Individuals with a history of herpes are considered conditionally acceptable for military service, but must undergo a medical evaluation to determine their suitability. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, herpes does not automatically disqualify you from the military. However, individuals with a history of herpes must meet specific guidelines and undergo a medical evaluation to determine their suitability for military service. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional and the military’s medical standards to determine whether your herpes history will affect your ability to serve.
Additional Tips
- Be honest: Be truthful about your herpes history when applying to the military. Any false information may result in your application being denied.
- Get tested: Get tested for herpes before applying to the military to determine your status.
- Consult a healthcare professional: Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for your herpes history and to discuss any concerns you may have.
By understanding the military’s guidelines for herpes and taking the necessary steps to ensure your suitability for service, you can take the first step towards a successful military career.
