Shingles
Shingles is one of the diseases caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person has had chickenpox, the virus may reappear later as shingles. People who have not had chickenpox or have not received the chickenpox vaccine may get chickenpox from someone who has shingles. People with shingles should keep the rash covered, avoid touching or scratching the rash, and wash their hands often to prevent the spread of the virus.
Shingles is a painful rash illness which appears as crops of small blisters. Other symptoms can include fever, headache, chills, and upset stomach. Before the rash develops, itching, tingling or pain may occur in the area. The rash begins with raised reddish bumps which become blisters. It usually appears only on one side of the body. The blisters crust over and fall off after 7 to 10 days. Some people continue to have pain even after the rash is gone.
