Can You Join the Military if You Have Herpes?
Herpes is a common and contagious viral infection that affects millions of people worldwide. When considering joining the military, many individuals with herpes wonder if they are eligible for service. The answer is complex, and it’s essential to understand the military’s policies and procedures regarding herpes.
What is the Military’s Policy on Herpes?
The Department of Defense (DoD) has a set of guidelines for individuals with herpes simplex virus (HSV) who wish to join or continue serving in the military. The policy is primarily focused on ensuring the overall health and well-being of military personnel, as well as maintaining the safety of others.
Do You Need to Disclose Herpes?
When enlisting or reenlisting, you are required to disclose any medical conditions, including herpes, on your medical history questionnaire (DH-185). This questionnaire is used to assess your overall health and identify potential health risks.
Disqualifying Factors for Military Service
The military will consider the following factors when evaluating your eligibility for service with herpes:
- Type of herpes: Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is generally not considered a disqualifying condition, as it typically manifests as cold sores. Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is considered more serious and may lead to disqualification.
- Symptoms and management: If you have active, symptomatic herpes, it may be considered a disqualifying condition. Additionally, if you are experiencing frequent or severe recurrences, it may impact your ability to serve.
- Transmission risk: Herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI), and the military must ensure that service members do not pose a risk to their fellow troops.
Evaluation Process
When evaluating your eligibility for military service, the military will consider the following factors:
- Nature and severity of the condition: The military will assess the severity of your herpes symptoms, including the frequency and duration of outbreaks.
- Impact on duties: The military will consider how your herpes may affect your ability to perform your duties, including exposure risks to others.
- Treatment and management: The military will evaluate your treatment and management plan, including your adherence to medication regimens and other therapies.
Table: Military Herpes Eligibility Factors
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Type of herpes | HSV-1 (cold sores) generally not disqualifying, HSV-2 (genital herpes) may be disqualifying |
| Symptoms and management | Active, symptomatic herpes may be disqualifying; frequent or severe recurrences may impact service |
| Transmission risk | Herpes is an STI; service members must not pose a risk to others |
What Are the Consequences of Falsifying Herpes Diagnosis?
It is essential to disclose your herpes diagnosis honestly and accurately. Falsifying your diagnosis or concealment of herpes can lead to:
- Dismissal from service
- Loss of military benefits
- Legal action
Conclusion
While herpes is not automatically a disqualifying condition for military service, it may impact your eligibility depending on the type, symptoms, and management of your condition. It is crucial to disclose your herpes diagnosis truthfully and accurately, and to work with a military medical professional to evaluate your eligibility for service.
