Shingles
What is Shingles?
Shingles is a painful rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus (the same virus that causes chickenpox). It happens when the virus, which stays dormant in your body after chickenpox, reactivates later in life.
How is it Spread?
- You cannot catch shingles from someone else
- However, the virus can cause chickenpox in people who haven’t had it before
- Spread through direct contact with the rash or blisters
- Contagious until the rash scabs over
Who is at Risk?
- Adults over 50 years old
- People with a weakened immune system
- Anyone who has had chickenpox before
- Those under stress or recovering from illness
Signs and Symptoms:
- Burning, tingling, or pain in one area
- Red rash with fluid-filled blisters
- Itching and sensitivity to touch
- Fever, headache, and tiredness
- Pain may last weeks or months after the rash heals (post-herpetic neuralgia)
When to Consider Vaccination:
- Aged 50 or older
- If you have a weakened immune system
- To reduce your risk of shingles or lessen its severity
The Vaccine:
- Shingrix (non-live vaccine, 2 doses)
- Offered by the NHS to people aged 70–79
- Safe and highly effective
- Helps prevent shingles and its complications
Do
- Get the shingles vaccine if you’re eligible (usually age 50+ or with certain health conditions)
- Speak to your GP if you’re unsure about eligibility or your vaccine history
- Manage stress and support your immune system to lower your risk
Do not
- Assume chickenpox immunity means you won’t get shingles
- Wait until you get shingles to think about vaccination — it’s for prevention
- Ignore early symptoms like tingling or rash — early treatment helps