Shingles is a reactivation of the same virus that causes chickenpox. It causes a painful, blistering rash on one side of the body or face, usually in a stripe along a nerve (a “dermatome”). It’s more common with age and in people with weakened immune systems.
Is it contagious?
- You can’t “catch shingles,” but fluid from shingles blisters can give someone chickenpox if they’re not immune.
- Keep the rash covered and avoid contact with pregnant people who haven’t had chickenpox/vaccine, newborns, and people with weak immune systems until blisters have crusted.
Symptoms
- Burning, tingling, or sharp pain on one side before the rash.
- Grouped blisters on a red base that crust over in 7–10 days.
- Sometimes fever, headache, or tiredness.
- If on the face (especially near the eye), it can threaten vision—seek care urgently.
When to seek medical care
- Start treatment as soon as possible—ideally within 72 hours of rash onset.
- Immediate care if the rash is near the eye or ear, if pain is severe, or if you have widespread rash or a weak immune system.
Treatment
- Antiviral pills (such as valacyclovir) shorten illness and lower complications—most helpful when started early.
- Pain control: acetaminophen/ibuprofen; sometimes stronger pain medicines or nerve-pain medications (like gabapentin) are needed.
- Cool compresses, loose clothing, and rest can help.
Possible complication: nerve pain
- Some people, especially older adults, can have lingering nerve pain after the rash (postherpetic neuralgia). Early antivirals and good pain control may help.
Prevention: Shingles vaccine
- A two-dose shingles vaccine (Shingrix) is recommended for most adults 50+ and for some younger adults with certain health conditions.
- The vaccine greatly lowers your chance of shingles and long-term nerve pain.