Herpes Doctor

Shingles is an activation of the latent virus Varicella Herpes Zoster
which also causes chickenpox. It is normally seen in 1 out of 5 seniors
who had chickenpox in childhood.

The symptoms of shingles are similar to those of chickenpox. It is
a rash that turns into blisters which then turn into a dry scab. This
can be seen all over the body and can be very itchy and painful. The
patient will also feel generally ill with fever, headaches and tiredness.

To a certain extent the virus will pass on its own. There is no cure for it,
but an antiviral agent such as:

• Valacyclovir
• Acyclovir or
• Famciclovir

is
usually prescribed due to the risk of Post-Herpetic Neuralgia which means
persistent pain in the affected area. The antiviral agent will reduce
the risk of this as well as reduce the severity and duration of
shingles.

It is not certain why Varicella Herpes Zoster reactivates to cause
shingles in some and not in others. It is not known why it is mostly
the seniors who experience shingles either. A key factor does seem
to be a low immune defense system.

Varicella Herpes Zoster stays in the body after chickenpox and can't be
cured. It is however latent and does no harm. The reason for this is that
the body developed antibodies during chickenpox which fought chickenpox.
The antibodies remain in the body keeping Varicella Herpes Zoster latent
and make sure that it stays that way. There is no risk of spreading when
Varicella Herpes Zoster is latent and shingles is not contagious
either.

The Varicella Vaccine has Not Yet Been Proved to Affect Shingles

There is a Varicella vaccine which is usually given to adults who
didn't have chickenpox in childhood as chickenpox in adults can be
very serious. It is also recommended for children although it is not
required unlike other vaccines. The vaccine is basically a shot of
Varicella Herpes Zoster, but very little of it. The body will develop
antibodies against the virus, just like if you had chickenpox, but on
a much smaller scale and usually without symptoms. It does not completely
eliminate the risk of chickenpox but it does reduce it considerably and
if you do get chickenpox in spite of the vaccine, it will be very mild
and manageable. You do not need a booster in later life. It is not yet
known whether the vaccination will protect against shingles as well.

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