Infections - Bacterial & Viral
Shingles (Herpes Zoster)
Herpes zoster
Common; ~1 in 3 people in their lifetime
Can spread chickenpox to those not immune
Yes — the rash heals; antivirals speed recovery
What Is It?
Shingles is a painful, blistering rash caused by reactivation of the chickenpox virus, which stays dormant in nerves after a past infection. It usually appears as a stripe or band on one side of the body or face and often burns, tingles, or hurts before the rash appears. Early antiviral treatment helps it heal faster and lowers the risk of lasting nerve pain.
Signs & Symptoms
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Burning, tingling, or pain in a band on one side
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A stripe of red bumps that blister, then crust over
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Usually on the trunk, but can affect the face or eye
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Pain that can be severe and precede the rash
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Sometimes fever, headache, or fatigue
Why Does It Happen?
After chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus stays quiet in nerve roots. Years later — often with age, illness, or a weakened immune system — it can reactivate, travel down a nerve, and cause the rash in that nerve's band of skin. You can't "catch" shingles, but the fluid in the blisters can give chickenpox to someone who has never had it or the vaccine.
Treatment Options
Start antiviral medicine as early as possible — ideally within 72 hours of the rash — to speed healing and reduce nerve pain. Pain control and skin care support recovery.
ANTIVIRAL MEDICINE
Started early (within 72 hours) to speed healing and limit complications.
PAIN RELIEF
From acetaminophen up to nerve-pain medicines for stronger pain.
SKIN CARE
Cool compresses and gentle care; keep the rash clean and covered.
VACCINATION
The shingles vaccine helps prevent future episodes (discuss timing).
Tips for Managing It at Home
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Seek care quickly — antivirals work best started early
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Keep the rash clean and covered until it crusts over
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Avoid contact with pregnant people, newborns, and anyone not immune to chickenpox
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Ask about the shingles vaccine once recovered
When to Call Your Provider
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Rash or pain near the eye, ear, or tip of the nose (urgent)
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Widespread rash, or you have a weakened immune system
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Severe pain, confusion, or the rash keeps spreading
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Pain that lingers for weeks after the rash heals
Sources & further reading
The information in this handout is based on general dermatology guidance from the reputable organizations below. These links are provided for patients who wish to read more from trusted sources.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Shingles: Overview. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/shingles-overview
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). About Shingles (Herpes Zoster). https://www.cdc.gov/shingles/about/index.html
DermNet. Herpes Zoster (Shingles). https://dermnetnz.org/topics/herpes-zoster
This handout is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
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