Herpes Zoster (Shingles) infection is a viral infection caused by the same virus as the Chickenpox. The virus of
Herpes Zoster can remain in the body for many years, often from the time of a childhood episode of the Chickenpox. The virus can become reactivated in a person with HIV, or another disease or condition which
weakens the immune system.
What do I look for?
Herpes Zoster can cause pain and blistering of the skin anywhere on the body, and usually appears in small patches. The pain of Herpes Zoster can
be quite severe as the nerve endings are affected. Rarely, Herpes Zoster infection can affect the person's eyes or brain.
Can Herpes Zoster be prevented?
No because most people have been exposed
to Chickenpox. If you have not been exposed, and you come into contact with someone who has Chickenpox, let your doctor or nurse know.
How is Herpes Zoster treated?
When a person is diagnosed
with an active Herpes Zoster infection it can be treated with a medication called Acyclovir (Zovirax). This drug can sometimes shorten the time it takes for the blisters to heal.
Other medications are
used to control the pain of Herpes Zoster infection, which may continue for some time after the blisters have healed.
References
Whitehead, M., and Patterson, B. (1993). Managing your Health: A
Guide for People Living with HIV/AIDS. Toronto: CATIE and Toronto Peoopole with AIDS Foundation.
Bartlett, J., Sinkbeiner, A. (1991). The Guide to Living with HIV Infection. Baltimore: The John
Hopkins University Press.
