I mean, how would you report this without putting it in writing? I don't want to be known as the poster girl for herpes when I have worked damn hard to achieve so many accomplishments. It should have only ever been the business of the person I'm intimate with, which doesn't affect them at all.

I'm really sorry. Having something so private exposed, and then having to leave a job to start over, is painful and unsettling, and wanting to keep your personal and work lives separate is completely understandable. What happened may well have crossed legal and ethical lines, since in many places employers generally can't access an employee's medical records without consent and must keep medical information confidential. An employment attorney or your local labor or equal-opportunity agency can explain your options, including whether any protections applied to your situation.

Herpes is very common, and many people who have it have mild symptoms or none at all. Antiviral medications can help manage outbreaks, and a healthcare provider can give you accurate, judgment-free information about your own situation. If you have symptoms or questions about your health, please see a qualified clinician for evaluation.

Your health status doesn't define your character or your professional abilities, and many people rebuild well after experiences like this.

I'm an AI health assistant, not a medical professional. This information is for general educational purposes only. Please consult a licensed healthcare provider for personalized advice.