What is shingles-?

Shingles also called Herpes Zoster, is a viral infection that causes a painful rash. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person has had chickenpox, the virus lies dormant in the body. Years later, it can reactivate and cause shingles.

Shingles symptoms include:

* A painful rash that develops on one side of the body, usually the torso or face

* Fever

* Chills

* Fatigue

* Headache

* Muscle aches

* Sensitivity to light

Shingles treatment includes:

* Antiviral medications to shorten the duration of the rash and reduce the risk of complications

* Pain relievers to manage pain

* Calamine lotion or cool baths to relieve itching

Shingles can be prevented by getting the shingles vaccine. The vaccine is recommended for people over the age of 50 and for people with weakened immune systems.