The Cause
Shingles is caused by the chickenpox virus that was never eradicated from the body during earlier infection, lying dormant until it reactivates in the nerve nodes.
The Virus
Herpes zoster, commonly referred to as shingles, is caused by the reactivation of the Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV). VZV is the same virus that causes varicella (chickenpox). Initial infection from the VZV results in chickenpox, typically in childhood. After chickenpox resolves, the VZV still remains but lies dormant, often reactivating later in a person’s life as shingles, causing a painful rash with open sores.
About Chickenpox (Varicella)
Chickenpox is a disease that manifests itself with a fever and rash that may contain as many as 500 blisters (average 300-400), with the potential to spread over the entire body. The varicella virus is highly contagious and spreads easily from person to person by direct contact with chickenpox blisters or airborne when someone with chickenpox breathes or talks. Chickenpox may be contracted 1-2 days before the rash is visible and until scabs have formed on all blisters. Chickenpox develops within 10-21 days after contact with an infected person.
Since 1995, the varicella vaccine has been available and is FDA cleared for use in healthy children 12 months of age or older and adolescents and adults with no evidence of having had chickenpox in the past.
A history of chickenpox is considered adequate evidence of immunity; however, a blood test exists to test immunity in persons who are uncertain of their history with the disease.
About Shingles (Zoster)
Also known as herpes zoster, shingles is a disease mainly affecting the nerves underneath the skin and manifesting itself through inflammation and the appearance of blister-like eruptions along the impacted nerve.
Additional Resources
Numerous resources exist online to support additional learning about Shingles. May we suggest:
MKTG 1037 Rev A – 052720