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Shingles

Shingles (also known as Shingles Herpes Zoster) is caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV) -the same virus which causes chickenpox.

Symptoms

The first signs of shingles can be an itching, tingling or painful feeling in an area of skin and a headache/generally feeling unwell. The rash (fluid-filled blisters) forms a few days later on one side of the body, commonly on the chest or stomach, and can be intensely painful.

How do you catch Shingles?
After having chickenpox, the VZV remains dormant in the nervous system. Most cases occur at a later stage in life or when the immune system is lowered.

Incubation period
Shingles can occur at any time; initial symptoms can appear 1-5 days before the rash develops.

Diagnosis

Based on symptoms and the appearance of the rash.

Prevention
Vaccination is the only preventative measure in place against shingles. It can significantly reduce the risk of Post Herpetic Neuralgia.

Treatment
At MASTA we offer 2 types of shingles vaccine; Zostavax and Shingrix, our clinicians will be happy to help you decide which vaccine may be best for you.

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Vaccination options

 

Two Shingles vaccines are available from MASTA, Zostavax and Shingrix. Shingrix can be offered to adults aged 18yrs* and over. *18-49yrs subject to certain conditions.

 

Level of protection: bvaries: approx. 71% aged 50yrs, decreasing with age thereafter

 

Protection duration: uncertain, studies are ongoing; thought to be at least 5-10 years

 

How is it given: Usually given as a course of one or two injections depending on the type of vaccination chosen.

 

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Did you know?

  • You cannot catch shingles from anyone else, but you can catch chickenpox from someone who currently has shingles (while the rash is still oozing fluid) if you haven’t had chickenpox before.
  • Post Herpetic Neuralgia is pain at the site which lasts for more than 90 days after the rash first appears. It is more common in older people.
  • Shingles in pregnancy is not a danger to the mother or unborn baby, but antiviral treatment may be needed.