TY Nic,

After rooting around the CDC site you linked, I ran across this 2002 Guide to Treatment, Detection and Mgt. of STDs.  Not for general audiences - but if you like technical detail, it's got it. It provides the best account I've ever read of HSV and the differences in transmission and recurrence tendencies of Herpes Simplex 1 versus Simplex 2.

Since the pub is targeted to health agencies, etc., it mentions some "reportable diseases." Depending on the state, it appears that your doctor, clinic, etc. are required to report instances positive test results for certain STDs.  I suppose the reporting (and required followup) is a good idea from a public health policy standpoint.  

However, it may also serve to scare off people (especially hobbyists) who would like to get tested but are hyper-sensitive to privacy concerns.

Thanks for posting.  You can never be too informed.

Considering what a high-risk activity this is, I don't think there's enough discussion about protecting yourself.  I participate in motorcycle messageboards as well and we talk about gear and how to ride all the time...yet we never talk about protection over here it seems.