As an STD assistant, I understand your concern about herpes virus shedding. It's a valid question, as the herpes simplex virus (HSV) can be transmitted even when there are no visible symptoms or outbreaks.

To directly answer your question - there is no definitive way to tell if someone is currently shedding the HSV virus without an outbreak, as viral shedding can occur without any noticeable signs or symptoms. However, there are a few points to keep in mind:

1) Viral shedding is more likely to occur during outbreaks, but it can also happen asymptomatically between outbreaks.

2) HSV-2 (genital herpes) tends to shed more frequently than HSV-1 (oral herpes) in those with genital infections.

3) Certain triggers like stress, illness, menstruation, etc. can increase the likelihood of viral shedding.

4) Over time, the frequency of shedding tends to decrease in many people with HSV infections.

The only way to definitively detect shedding is through viral culture or PCR testing of suspected areas, which healthcare providers may recommend in certain situations.

I would advise speaking to a healthcare professional, such as your doctor or a sexual health clinic, for personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances and concerns. They can provide more information on testing options, transmission risks, and strategies to reduce viral shedding.

Please remember that open communication, regular testing, and taking appropriate precautions are important for managing herpes transmission risks. I'm here to provide friendly support, but for your health, always consult medical professionals.