Shingles

Most people remember getting varicella when they were kids. After you get over chickenpox, though, the virus stays in your body in a dormant state. It can resurface years later a rash called shingles or herpes zoster. Shingles can be extremely painful. Its common name comes from the Latin word “cingulus”, meaning “belt,” and one of its nicknames tells you a lot: “a belt of fire”.

Why is shingles so different from chickenpox? Is there a way to prevent shingles? What side effects and complications can occur with it? This guide is designed to answer those questions, because not only can you often prevent shingles, but being informed about the disease can make it easier to understand and live with.

Dis you know?

30% of people will develop shingles at some point in their lives. By the age of 85, 50% of people will have had at least one episode of shingles.

Table of content

• What is shingles?
  • Description
  • Signs and Symptoms
  • Transmission and transmission risk
  • Shingles risk factors
  • Shingles: Impact and numbers
  • Complications
• How is shingles treated and prevented?
  • Treatment
  • Prevention by Vaccination