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Expert: Terry B - 4/3/2007


Question
can i get shingle 9 weeks after possible hiv exposure?
many thanks

Answer
Dear Alex:

Peace.  Shingles are a reactivation of the same virus that causes Chicken Pox.  You can get shingles anytime and they may be the result of stress and impact on your immune system.  The probability of a somewhat recent HIV exposure doing such damage to your immune system is low.  

What you should do is see a health professional immediately or, if you have already (and have been diagnosed with shingles) see someone for HIV counseling and testing if for some reason you did not ask this of your health provider.  

Knowing your HIV status (and please understand that a possible HIV exposure might have occurred long ago) is an important piece of understanding your own health; this information is also very important for the person providing your care.

All the best to you, and please see your provider.

Terry

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Terry B

Expertise

Help in assessing personal and professional risk of HIV transmission; tips in teaching about HIV/AIDS; cultural competency for teaching about HIV/AIDS in Catholic settings; considerations in US and overseas HIV/AIDS programs and education for health and other professionals. Specific questions about treatment should be referred to your health provider; opinions and information offered are not meant to replace medical advice

Experience

Seven years with academic medical center and national AIDS education and training center, seven subsequent years with focus on international HIV/AIDS in East and South Africa. Former clinician, bioethics preceptor at an academic medical center and presenter in wide range of fora including international AIDS conference.

Organizations
Disabled American Veterans American Public Health Association MENSA AA

Publications
Human Variety, EC Sociological Society Proceedings of the International AIDS Conference, Durban, South Africa "HIV and Primary Care"

Education/Credentials
BS Psychology MPH Master of Public Health PhD studies underway

Awards and Honors
Naval School of Health Sciences, Hospital Corps with Highest Honors, Neuropsychiatry with Honors and High Distinction

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