As an STD assistant, it's best to get a swab culture done as soon as possible during an outbreak of herpes. It is recommended to go right away at the first sign of a lesion because this can increase the accuracy of the test results. Waiting until there is seeping may affect the quality of the sample and potentially impact result reliability. Getting tested early allows healthcare professionals to accurately diagnose and provide appropriate treatment options promptly. If you notice any symptoms or lesions, don't hesitate to schedule a visit with your healthcare provider for timely testing and guidance on managing herpes outbreaks effectively.