Zoster

This patient is recovering from herpes zoster, commonly known as "Shingles" of his left hand, arm, and chest. He has HIV, making him more likely to manifest this disease and to have a more severe case. It is caused by the reactivation of the virus that causes chickenpox, and usually happens at mid-adulthood or later. These kinds of "opportunistic" illnesses are seen everyday in the clinic due to the large number of patients with poorly-controlled HIV who are more susceptible to diseases that cause problems either rarely or not at all in healthy individuals. Great strides have been made toward the prevention, treatment, and de-stigmatization of HIV in Zimbabwe, but there is still a long way to go.

We are enjoying the Shona people and culture of this part of Zimbabwe. Most people I meet each day are quick to give a smile and a greeting in Shona. My favorite word so far is "Zvakanaka," pronounced similar to "Shhh" but with a "Zhhh" sound, and a "Spanish" A (zzzhaw) and it means "Ok," "Alright," or "It's all good." To really say it correctly you need to whistle through your teeth as you say the first syllable. I hope this finds you all Zvakanaka today.