|  | Conditions Treatments | Viruses

In What Parts of the World Is the Shingles Virus Found?

Shingles, or herpes zoster, is caused by the varicella zoster virus. The prevalence of shingles is worldwide, especially in developed countries. The incidence has grown with the rise of population, infection, age and stress.

  1. Significance

    • Shingles is caused by the same virus as chickenpox. Symptoms for viral infection are treatable, but the virus remains in the body and can be reactivated during a person's lifetime, often causing a painful rash and nervous system complications.

    Incidence

    • In many developed countries, people have had chickenpox. These people are at risk for reactivation of the virus as shingles later in life. Incidence in the United States is estimated to be 1 million cases per year.

    Prevalence

    • According to a 2005 article in the "New England Journal of Medicine," the lifetime prevalence of shingles is estimated to be about 25 percent; the NIH estimates two in 10 to be affected in their lifetime. With global travel, the dormant virus is in every part of the world.

    Risk Factors

    • In addition to prior exposure to chickenpox, risk factors include age (over 50), weakened immune system and stress. The virus can be spread from a person with active shingles (blisters) to another, without causing shingles.

    Treatment

    • Early diagnosis and treatment are critical in managing shingles. Antiviral medications are available to treat shingles to shorten the duration of rash and illness. Pain medication can also be prescribed.

    Prevention

    • The spread of the virus can be prevented with hand washing and bandaging of the blisters. For those who previously had chickenpox, establishing healthy habits to reduce stress and sickness are beneficial against reactivation later in life.

Viruses - Related Articles