Download Shingles Fact Sheet

Infectious Disease Fact Sheet
SHINGLES
What is it?
Shingles or Herpes zoster , is a type of rash caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a
person recovers from chickenpox, the virus stays in the body. Usually the virus does not cause any
problems, however the virus can reappear years later, causing shingles. It occurs as a result of the virus
becoming dormant (inactive) after an attack of chickenpox and emerging many years later as shingles.
The cause of reactivation is unknown; but advancing age, stress or a weakened immune system may be
triggers.
What are the symptoms?
The virus resides in a dormant condition in the nerve tracts that emerge from the spine. When it is
reactivated, it spreads along the nerve tract, first causing pain or a burning sensation. A rash appears in 2
to 3 days, after the virus has reached the skin. It consists of red patches of skin with small blisters
(vesicles) that look very similar to early chickenpox. The rash lasts about 7-10 days, and heals within 2-4
weeks.
Who can get it?
Anyone who has had chickenpox can develop shingles at some point during their lifetime. Herpes zoster
occurs in about 15% of older adults, and rarely in children.
How is it spread?
Localized shingles is transmitted by direct contact with fluid from the blisters, or by contact with objects
contaminated with this fluid. The role of airborne spread of localized shingles is not clear.
Children/adults with localized shingles may attend school/work in most cases if appropriate barriers are
used (i.e., all lesions are covered and frequent hand washing is practiced after touching or scratching the
rash).
Disseminated (widespread) shingles is spread by direct or indirect contact with fluid from the blisters and
also through the air. Persons with disseminated shingles should consult with their physician to determine
how long they should be off from school/work.
Is it contagious?
The virus that causes shingles can be passed on to others up to one week after onset of rash. A person is
not infectious before blisters appear. Anyone who has not had chickenpox may contract chickenpox from
a shingles – infected person. You cannot contract shingles from a shingles infected person.
Are there long term effects?
Complications develop in about 30% of cases, the most common is chronic severe pain or post-herpetic
neuralgia. This pain may last weeks to months.
For more information, please contact:
Niagara Region Public Health, Infectious Disease Program
1-888-505-6074 or 905-688-8248 ext. 7330
www.niagararegion.ca
Revised November 2012
Page 1 of 2
Infectious Disease Fact Sheet
Another serious concern is eye problems e.g. vision abnormalities, drooping eyelid, and blindness.
Involvement of the facial nerve may cause facial paralysis, hearing loss and loss of taste in half of the
tongue. It is important to see your doctor immediately if you have shingles near the eye.
Can you get it again?
Most often, a person has only one episode of shingles in a lifetime. Although rare, a second or third case
of shingles can occur.
Is there treatment?
 See your doctor immediately
 Antiviral medication may be prescribed to speed healing of the rash & reduce shingles pain. Results
are best when started as soon as possible after the rash appears
 Clean your hands often
 Take cool baths
 Wrap ice cubes in a clean towel & apply to the affected area
 Calamine lotion may help to relieve itching and discomfort
 Keep the skin clean
 Wear loose clothing
 Don’t scratch! Scratching can cause infection, delay healing and may leave scars
 Rest, drink fluids and eat well
How can it be prevented?
A new vaccine called Zostavax was approved for people 50 years of age and older. Please contact your
family physician or Public Health if you would like further information on the vaccine.
Precautions for health care workers:
All health care workers with shingles should consult with Occupational Health for directions on how long
they should be off work. Health care workers who require further information regarding recommended
precautions when caring for a patient with shingles (i.e. gloves, gowns and masks) should consult with
their Infection Control Officer.
This information is intended to provide general health-related information about Shingles or
Herpes zoster. It is not intended to replace medical consultation by your physician and/or other
health care professionals.
Source: Ontario Hospital Association, Varicella/Zoster Surveillance Protocol for Ontario Hospitals, 1996 Control of Communicable Diseases
Manual, 2009, 19th Edition, David L. Heymann, MD
For more information, please contact:
Niagara Region Public Health, Infectious Disease Program
1-888-505-6074 or 905-688-8248 ext. 7330
www.niagararegion.ca
Revised November 2012
Page 2 of 2