People appearing in this content are models and for
illustrative purposes only. Hypothetical patients.
WHAT IS SHINGLES ?
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that’s responsible for chickenpox.1,2
Almost all Australians over 50 carry the chickenpox virus, some just may not remember having chickenpox, or it was so mild they only had minor symptoms.1-3
You can not catch shingles
You can’t catch shingles from someone who has shingles. But you can get chickenpox from someone who has shingles if you have never had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine.1,2
Common symptoms
Common symptoms of shingles include a painful, blistering rash, itchiness around the infected area, and fatigue.1,2
It can happen to anyone
Shingles can occur at any age, to anyone that has had chickenpox.1,2 This is because after recovering from chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus lies dormant in the body, typically in the nerve cells.1,2 Later on in life, the virus can reactivate, resulting in shingles.1,2
Shingles primarily affects individuals over the age of 50 and those with a weakened immune system.1–3 Nearly all adults aged 50 and above already harbour the dormant virus responsible for causing shingles, even if they don't remember having had chickenpox.1–3
It is common
About 1 in 3 people will develop shingles in their lifetime.1,2 While most people fully recover, some may experience complications.1,2
Early treatment for shingles may reduce the severity and duration of the illness, depending on your symptoms.1,2 If you think you have shingles, speak to your doctor as soon as possible.
DON’T LET MYTHS CLOUD YOUR SHINGLES KNOWLEDGE
BOOK A GP APPOINTMENT
Download the discussion guide and talk to your doctor about the risk and impact of shingles.
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