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Shingles is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of Chickenpox (Varicella-Zoster Virus). Varicella virus is not the same thing as the herpes simplex virus even though it belongs to the same family of viruses. 1 out of 3 people will develop shingles at some point in their life, while the virus is more common in older people children do also get the virus. Most people only get shingles once but it is possible to get it up to 3 times lasting from 2-6 weeks.

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After you have had the chickenpox the virus lies inactive in your  nerve tissues and years later may reactivate as shingles. When the virus reactivates it travels from the nerve body to endings in the skin where the blisters are produced. Although the reason for shingles developing is unknown it is though to be due to having a compromised immune system. Shingles can be passed to anyone who is not immune to chickenpox. The virus is spread through the open sores of the shingles rash however, the other person will develop chickenpox not shingles. Shingles are contagious until your blisters scab over, so it is recommended that physical contact with anyone who has not had chickenpox, the vaccine, a weakened immune system or pregnant women and newborns are avoided. People who are 50 years of age and older are at an increased risk as well.

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The signs and symptoms of shingles include:
Pain, burning, numbness or tingling and itching
Sensitivity to touch.
A red rash that begins a few days after the pain.
Fluid filled blisters that break open and crust over.
Some also experience: fever, headache, chills, and fatigue. The blisters should begin to dry out and crust over within 7-10 days.
Rare and serious complications include:
Pain or rash involving the eye which could lead to permanent damage.
Loss of hearing or intense pain in one ear, and dizziness.
Bacterial infections.

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There is no cure for shingles but if treated promptly with antiviral medications it will help speed up healing and reduce the risk of complications. Medications include: Acyclovir (Zovirax), Valacyclovir (Valtrex). Since shingles can cause severe pain doctors may prescribe: a topical patch (Qutenza), Neurontin, numbing agents, narcotics, antihistamines and injections. Home treatments include: rest, cold wet compresses, calamine lotion, and colloidal oatmeal baths to ease pain and itching.

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Getting vaccinated helps keep you from developing severe symptoms or complications from shingles. All children should receive 2 doses of the chickenpox vaccine, adults who have never had chickenpox should get vaccinated. Although, getting vaccinated does not mean you will not get the chickenpox which leads to shingles. Adults 50 years of age and older should get the shingles vaccine Shingrix in 2 does six months apart. Keep your rash covered and frequently wash your hands.

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Shingles during the contagious stage under a microscope.

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Shingles during the contagious stage under a microscope.

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Shingles is a rash with blisters that can be very painful and itchy. There are 1 million cases reported in the United States each year according to the CDC.  There is no cure but there are preventative measures that can be taken to help shorten an outbreak. Anyone can get shingles but it is more common in people who have already had chickenpox and or over the age of 50. If you get shingles you usually will only get it once but can have it up to 3 times.

I chose shingles because I had it on my face as a child I do not remember much when I had it other than it was on my face and the doctors were concerned it would cause vision problems or blindness. Therefore, I have a chance of having a recurrence later in life.

All information was found on the following sites:
https://www.healthline.com/health/shingles#prevention

https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/shingles/shingles-skin#2

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shingles