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My aunt has "shingles". Is this something that I could catch? Shingles is a viral infection caused by the same virus that causes chicken pox (herpes zoster). Shingles usually start as a burning pain and very sensitive skin usually limited to one side of the body. A red, blistery rash at the same site follows the pain. Any person that has had chicken pox can develop shingles because the virus remains in the body in an inactive state. Shingles is usually triggered by illness, trauma or stress. You aunt can only pass this virus on to people who have never had chicken pox. Newborn babies, people with a weak immune system, and pregnant women exposed to the shingles virus are at risk to develop a severe infection. If you think you may have shingles, see your dermatologist as soon as possible. Early treatment will help prevent or lessen scarring, infection and persistent pain. | |||||||||
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