Shingles

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which remains dormant in nerve cells after an initial chickenpox infection.

This medical condition is characterized by a painful rash that typically appears as a stripe or belt-like pattern on one side of the body, following the path of the affected nerves.

Shingles most commonly affects older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems.

The initial symptoms may mimic those of flu, such as fever, headache, and fatigue, eventually progressing to localized pain and burning sensations before the appearance of blisters. Shingles can cause intense discomfort and complications like postherpetic neuralgia (chronic nerve pain) or ocular involvement if it affects the eyes.

Timely diagnosis through examination and laboratory tests allows for appropriate management using antiviral medications to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. Vaccination against shingles significantly reduces its incidence and severity, providing long-lasting protection against this debilitating condition.

Therefore, awareness campaigns promoting vaccination among at-risk populations play a crucial role in preventing shingles-related morbidity.