The Truth About Shingles [Bulletin date: April 12, 2026]
There are many myths
surrounding the diagnosis of shingles. Here
are a few facts to know:
1)
Shingles and chickenpox
are not the same illness. Once someone has had chickenpox, the
virus remains dormant in the body and may later emerge as shingles.
2)
Shingles
is more common in older adults but anyone with a weakened immune system may get
them. Stress may also trigger the virus
to emerge.
3)
The open blisters of the
rash can’t pass on shingles, but they can spread the chickenpox virus to
someone who’s never had it, never been vaccinated against it, or has a weakened
immune system.
4)
A shingles rash is
blistery and painful, can last about a month, and is usually seen as patches on
one side of the body.
5)
About 40% of people who
get shingles feel a burning, shooting pain for months or years after the rash
is gone.
6)
Taking prescription
anti-viral medications within the first 3 days after the rash appears may
ease the pain and help lessen the duration of shingles. The earlier you start,
the better it works.
7)
Shingles
may return and affect a different part of the body.
8)
Getting
the shingles shot may help prevent or lessen the severity of shingles.
For more information about shingles go to www.WebMd.com and search for “shingles”.
St. Ann Parish Nurse
770-552-6400 x6019
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