SHINGLES, ALSO KNOWN AS HERPES ZOSTER, IS CAUSED BY A VIRUS.
Shingles is a painful rash caused by the reactivation of the varicella zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Following chickenpox, the varicella zoster virus is dormant inside you. Reactivation of the virus is associated with a number of risk factors, including an ageing immune system. Find out if you’re at risk, and how vaccination can help prevent shingles.
You may be at Risk
- Shingles is most common among people over 50. Over 90% of adults over 50 years old already carry the virus that causes shingles. (based on US and European studies)
- Over 90% of adults over 50 already carry the virus that causes shingles.
- People who have a weakened immune system are at higher risk of developing shingles and are more likely to have a more severe case.
What Does Shingles Feel Like?
Shingles pain can feel like electric shocks, burning or intense itching. A blistering rash usually appears on one side of the body. You may also experience other symptoms, such as chills, a fever, an upset stomach, or headache.
The pain caused by shingles has been described by patients as nails piercing the skin, the body being scorched by boiling water, and nerve endings on fire.
TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR TODAY
Don’t wait, contact a doctor as soon as possible if you think you have a case of shingles. Your doctor will also be able to advise you on how to manage any symptoms you may be experiencing.
