Shingles is a painful skin rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus, sometimes called herpes zoster. It often appears in a band, strip, or small area on one side of the face or body. Shingles is most common in older adults and people with weakened immune systems. It can flare up due to stress, injury, certain medications, and other factors. While most people who get shingles will recover and not experience it again, it is possible to have multiple episodes.
Contagion and Prevention
The good news is that you can't catch shingles from someone else who has shingles. However, there is a small chance that a person with a shingles rash can spread the virus to someone who hasn't previously had chickenpox or who hasn't had the chickenpox vaccine. This can result in the other person developing chickenpox, not shingles.
Symptoms of Shingles
Shingles can present a variety of symptoms, including:
- Headache
- Sensitivity to Light
- Flu-like Symptoms (without fever)
- Itching
- Pain in Certain Areas of the Body
- Rash with Blisters: These blisters fill with fluid and then crust over. It often takes weeks for the rash to heal, and it may leave behind scarring.
Not everyone will experience all these symptoms. Some people may have milder symptoms, while others may suffer from more severe manifestations.
Treatment Options
Shingles is typically treated with antiviral and pain medications. Starting treatment promptly can help the rash heal faster and reduce pain and other symptoms. If you suspect you have shingles, see your doctor immediately.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the shingles vaccine, Shingrix, for adults aged 50 and older, as well as for adults 19 years and older who have weakened immune systems due to disease or therapy. Shingrix is more than 90% effective at preventing shingles and its complications.
- Shingrix: Administered in two doses, 2 to 6 months apart, Shingrix significantly lowers your chances of developing shingles and prevents future flare-ups.
By staying informed and taking preventive measures, you can reduce your risk of shingles and its associated complications. If you have any concerns or questions about shingles or the vaccine, consult your healthcare provider.
This article first appeared in the February 2025 edition of the HealthPerks newsletter.
