Bidwell Health
Herpes Outbreak Treatment Online
Bidwell offers a $45 online visit for adults ages 18-64 with a prior herpes diagnosis who need episodic antiviral treatment for a recurrent outbreak. No photo upload or video call is required, and treatment is provided only when clinically appropriate.
What is episodic outbreak treatment?
Episodic treatment means taking antiviral medication for a short course when symptoms begin. It is different from daily suppressive therapy. It may be a good fit for patients with occasional outbreaks who do not want daily medication.
When should outbreak medicine be started?
Antivirals are generally most useful when started early: at tingling, burning, tenderness, or the first visible sign of a known recurrent outbreak. If you are not sure what the symptoms are, get examined rather than guessing.
Does this cover oral and genital outbreaks?
Yes, if the patient has a prior diagnosis and the history fits recurrent herpes. Oral cold sore outbreaks and genital herpes outbreaks share antiviral options, but dosing and clinical judgment differ.
When should I seek urgent or in-person care?
Seek in-person care for a first outbreak, severe pain, fever with severe illness, eye symptoms, stiff neck, confusion, trouble urinating, pregnancy, or symptoms that do not fit your prior herpes pattern.
What if outbreaks keep coming back?
If outbreaks are frequent or distressing, daily suppressive therapy may be worth discussing. Bidwell has a separate suppressive therapy path for patients seeking a 90-day daily plan.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use this if I feel an outbreak starting?
Yes, if you have a prior diagnosis and no red flags. Early treatment is often more useful.
Is this for first outbreaks?
No. First outbreaks need in-person testing and evaluation.
Can I request a non-valacyclovir antiviral?
No. Bidwell currently offers valacyclovir only for this herpes visit. The clinician still makes the final prescribing decision and may decline treatment if it is not clinically appropriate.