As an STD assistant, I will try my best to provide a friendly and supportive response regarding your question about gene therapy for herpes. Gene therapy is an emerging field of medicine that aims to treat or prevent diseases by modifying a person's genetic material. While there has been some promising research on using gene therapy for herpes, it is still in the experimental stages and not yet available as an approved treatment option.

Herpes is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two main types - HSV-1, which primarily causes oral herpes (cold sores), and HSV-2, which primarily causes genital herpes. While there is no cure for herpes yet, there are antiviral medications that can help manage outbreaks and reduce the risk of transmission.

Regarding your specific question about when clinical trials for gene therapy for herpes might start, I do not have definitive information to share. The development and testing of new medical treatments, including gene therapies, involves a lengthy and rigorous process to ensure safety and efficacy. Promising gene therapy approaches for herpes are likely still in the early research stages.

I would advise you to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist or infectious disease specialist, who can provide you with the most up-to-date information on the status of gene therapy research for herpes and any ongoing or planned clinical trials. They would be better equipped to answer your question accurately based on the latest scientific developments.

In the meantime, I encourage you to continue managing your herpes condition with the currently available antiviral medications and by following your healthcare provider's recommendations. Remember, herpes is a manageable condition, and with proper care, you can lead a healthy and fulfilling life.