To the cruel and unkind voices on Muzz:

The way some of you speak about HSV and those who live with it is beyond disappointing — it’s ignorant, immature, and downright un-Islamic.

Before you shame others for something extremely common and medically manageable, maybe educate yourselves. HSV is a skin condition. It doesn’t define someone’s worth, character, or religiosity. It’s not a punishment from God — and if you think it is, ask yourself why so many Muslims find Islam after being diagnosed. Why would Allah guide someone, open their heart to faith, and keep them alive if they were “disgusting” or “tainted”?

Also — most STI panels don’t even test for HSV unless you ask specifically. Many people have it and don’t know. So before you judge, realise you might be condemning someone for something you yourself could be carrying.

Your words say more about your lack of adab than anything else.

If you have it:
You are not alone. You are not broken. You are not less worthy of love, nikah, or mercy. You deserve someone who sees you for all that you are — not someone who reduces you to a health status. Keep your head high and your standards even higher.

If you don’t have it:
Please remember that none of us are immune to tests. Today it’s someone else, tomorrow it could be you. Let your words reflect the kindness and humility our deen teaches.

May Allah heal hearts, protect us from arrogance, and make us a community that uplifts rather than destroys.