The symptoms of Herpes Zoster, either chickenpox or shingles are caused
by the virus Varicella Herpes Zoster which in it self doesn't have any
symptoms but lays dormant in the body until activated. This article takes a brief look at the symptoms of both chickenpox and shingles.

Chickenpox

Chickenpox is usually seen in children. The symptoms are a rash that
turn into blisters which then turn into a dry scab. This can be
irritating, itchy and even painful. You will feel
generally ill, tired and weak.

From catching the virus to
seeing the first symptoms there will be 7 to 23 days and it is in
this incubation period that the virus is contagious. Once the symptoms are full
blown, the virus isn't contagious anymore.

Contrary to Herpes Simplex outbreaks, the chickenpox outbreak will only
happen once in a lifetime. There are rarely any complications from
chickenpox and it is usually not treated although you may use anti-
itch or local anesthetic cream to ease the symptoms.

Shingles

The Herpes Zoster virus stays in the body for life and may result
in an outbreak of shingles in older people. The symptoms of shingles are similar to
those of chickenpox. Shingles is usually treated with antiviral agents
as the disease is usually seen in older people whose immune defense system
may not be able to fight it without help.

Varicella Herpes Zoster is a highly contagious virus. It spreads via
the humidity in the air and if you haven't already caught it, you can
catch it from being in the same room as someone who is about to have an
outbreak of chickenpox. Shingles on the other hand, is not very
contagious.

There is not much you can do to prevent catching the Herpes
Zoster virus. Some countries (including the US) recommend a chickenpox
vaccine to children and those with a low immune defense system.

Related Links

• The herpes treatment page
• What is the chickenpox vaccine?
• Symptoms of chickenpox
• Treatment of shingles

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