Shingles (Herpes zoster)
Shingles (or Herpes zoster) is a condition caused by the chickenpox (varicella-zoster) virus and can only occur in people who have previously had chickenpox.
When a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus does not completely disappear from the body but stays dormant in the nerves close to the spine.
As a person gets older, it is possible for the virus to reappear in the form of shingles.
Shingles is uncommon before the age of 12 years with most cases occurring in people over the age of 40 years. Second or subsequent episodes of shingles are uncommon with most people only experiencing one bout of the disease in their lifetime. Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as people with symptomatic HIV infection or cancer, may suffer repeated infections.
Signs and symptoms
Early signs of shingles include a burning sensation or stabbing pain and tingling or itching on the skin. After a few days, a rash or blisters appear usually on one side of the body or face. When the rash is at its peak, symptoms can range from mild itching to extreme and debilitating pain.
The rash or blisters usually last from 1 to 14 days but can last longer.
Pain and tingling associated with the rash may persist for months to years after the rash has cleared. This occurs in about 1 in 10 cases and is called post-herpetic neuralgia.
Treatment
Shingles can be treated with antiviral drugs. Treatment should be started within 72 hours of the rash appearing for the most benefit. If you think you have shingles, seek prompt medical attention.
Most treatment is aimed at reducing the initial pain and rash. Other drugs that may be used to help ease symptoms include pain killers and topical ointments.
Shingles to the upper half of the face may cause serious damage to the eye, and medical assessment should be sought immediately.
It is important that the affected skin site be kept clean to avoid secondary bacterial infections. Avoid pricking or scratching the blisters.
Transmission
Direct contact with the fluid in the blisters may cause chickenpox (but not shingles) in people who have not previously had chickenpox. This is because both diseases are caused by the same virus. In addition to direct contact, shingles can also be spread via the air through coughing and sneezing if the blisters are present in the mouth of the infected person.
People with shingles and who have blisters should not have contact with people who have not had chickenpox or who are unsure if they have had chickenpox.
Prevention
Vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect you from serious disease caused by shingles. Shingles vaccination is recommended for everyone over 50 and the vaccine is funded for people most at risk of complications from shingles.
Vaccination with a 2-dose course of Shingrix® is available under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for:
- adults aged 65 years and over
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 years and over
- immunocompromised people aged 18 years and over with the following medical conditions:
- haematopoietic stem cell transplant
- solid organ transplant
- haematological malignancy
- advanced or untreated HIV.
Shingrix® vaccine does not contain the live virus and is safe for people who are immunocompromised. It is important to receive both doses for the best protection. The 2 doses are given 2 to 6 months apart for most people, and 1 to 2 months apart for people with weakened immune systems.
Anyone who wants to protect themselves against shingles can talk to their health professional about getting vaccinated.
Shingrix® can be given at the same time as most other vaccines however, if possible, it is best to have it by itself to reduce the risk of side effects. Talk to your doctor or other immunisation provider for advice.
To find out more about the shingles vaccination
- Zoster (shingles) vaccines (Shingrix® [RZV] and Zostavax® [ZVL]) – Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
- Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care resources for First Nations people
If in doubt, seek advice from a specialist.
Other resources
Help and assistance
For further information, please contact your local doctor, community health centre or nearest public health unit or 13HEALTH (13 43 25 84).
If you are in an emergency situation, call 000
Contact
- Get qualified health advice 24/7 for the cost of a local call. 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84)