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Winter is a common time for viruses and seasonal illnesses. This year, especially with increased stress levels, one virus we've been getting more and more questions about is shingles.
What Is Shingles?
Shingles is a viral infection that can occur in anyone who has previously had chickenpox. The chickenpox vaccine became available in the U.S. in 1995, so if you were born before then or have not received the vaccine, it's possible you had chickenpox and could develop shingles in the future.
After someone recovers from chickenpox, the virus doesn’t fully leave the body—it travels from the skin to the nerves, where it remains dormant. When it reactivates, it moves back through the nerves to the skin, presenting as shingles.
How Common Is Shingles?
Each year, more than 1 million cases of shingles are diagnosed in the U.S. Most people will develop a painful or itchy, blistering rash, typically appearing on just one side of the body. The rash often focuses on areas like the face, shoulder, trunk, or hips.
Before the rash appears, many people experience itching, pain, or a tingling sensation in the affected area—these symptoms usually begin 1–3 days before blisters form. The blisters themselves last about 7–10 days and typically scab over and heal within 2–3 weeks. Some individuals may also experience fever, chills, headache, or stomach upset.
Why Early Treatment Matters
It is important to start treatment for shingles within 2–3 days of symptom onset. Early treatment can:
If left untreated, shingles can lead to postherpetic neuralgia (long-term pain in the area where blisters occurred). In rare cases, shingles can also affect your eyesight, hearing, or lead to serious complications like pneumonia or neurological conditions such as encephalitis (brain swelling) or meningitis.
Even if it’s been longer than 2–3 days, we still recommend seeking treatment to help prevent or reduce long-term side effects.
Is Shingles Contagious?
We’re often asked: Is shingles contagious? The short answer is technically, yes—but only under certain conditions.
Shingles can spread the varicella-zoster virus to individuals who have never had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine. In these cases, exposure can result in chickenpox, not shingles. The virus is primarily spread through direct contact with open blisters. If you have shingles, take precautions to avoid spreading the virus, especially around: pregnant women, infants under 1 year old, unvaccinated individuals, or immunocompromised people (e.g., cancer patients, transplant recipients).
To help prevent spreading shingles, cover the rash and avoid touching the blisters. Wash your hands frequently and avoid close contact with at-risk individuals until blisters scab over.
Can Shingles Be Prevented?
Yes! There is a highly effective vaccine called Shingrix, which is recommended for adults aged 50 and older. Clinical trials have shown Shingrix to be over 90% effective at preventing shingles and its complications.
If you think you qualify or are interested in learning more about the vaccine, talk to your primary care provider.
Think You Have Shingles?
Don’t wait to “see what happens” or self-treat. Early medical evaluation is key. If you’re experiencing symptoms or have concerns about a skin condition, we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment with Charlotte Dermatology for expert care and peace of mind. For more information, visit the American Academy of Dermatology’s Shingles page.