I had a possible exposure on 9/29/16. Developed shingles by 10/3/16. I had a 4th generation DUO test at 4 weeks or 1 month and it was negative. I had a 3rd gen elisa test at 5 weeks negative. Also taken 8 Oraquick tests all negative. My question is please tell me where I stand right now? 

Short answer- you do not have HIV.  Your 4 week 4th generation tests are definitive and your subsequent tests continue to confirm this.  Your best, most solid data however are from your 4th generation test.  We have not seen persons who acquired HIV and did not have a reactive 4th generation test by the time 4 weeks had passed. 

I suspect that your concern relates to your shingles.  Remember that shingles can occur in almost anyone at any time.  While the rates are increased among persons who are immunosuppressed (including persons with HIV). most shingles occurs on persons without identified immunosuppression. 

I  hope this information is helpful and clear.  If not, please let me know.  EWH

---

Thank you so very much Dr. If i may my anxiety has been thru the roof. Is it possible for shingles to develop 4 to 5 days after possible exposure? Also the exposure was unprotected vaginal intervourse for 3 minutes.

Shingles occurring 4-5 days after an exposure would be a chance event and unrelated to any infection (including HIV) acquired through sexual exposure a few days earlier.  EWH
---

You have greatly helped my anxiety. I respect the work you and Dr H continue to do. So no matter the symptoms you can assure me that I can comfortably say I am HIV negative? Thank you Dr.

Correct, the symptoms you mentioned were certainly not due HIV acquired from the exposure you mentioned.  EWH ---