How is the shingles disease acquired?

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, results from the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. After an individual recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains inactive within the nerve cells near the spinal cord and brain. In some individuals, typically years later, the virus can reactivate and travel along the nerve fibers to the skin, causing shingles.

The risk of developing shingles increases with age, and it commonly affects individuals above the age of 50. However, it can occur in anyone who has had chickenpox, regardless of age. Certain factors such as a weakened immune system, stress, certain medical conditions, and certain medications can increase the likelihood of shingles reactivation.

Shingles is not contagious in its early stages when the blisters are covered. However, before the blisters appear, there may be a brief period when the virus can be spread through direct contact with an open sore or discharge from the affected individual to a person who has never had chickenpox or the vaccine for it. Contact with someone with shingles does not pose a risk to those who are immune to VZV, either through prior chickenpox or vaccination.