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Shingles

Shingles is a painful rash caused by reactivation of the chickenpox virus. Blisters usually form in a band on one side of the body or face. Treatment works best when a doctor assesses early whether an antiviral is needed. A rash near the eye, nose or ear, a severely weakened immune system, pregnancy or rapidly becoming more unwell needs particularly prompt assessment.

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  • Shingles develops when the virus that previously caused chickenpox becomes active again in a sensory nerve. It is therefore not a new infection caught from outside the body.
  • The skin may first burn, sting, itch or hurt when lightly touched. Groups of blisters then appear, usually in a narrow area on one side of the chest, abdomen, back or face.
  • A doctor assesses as early as possible whether an antiviral is needed. This is particularly important with facial involvement, a weakened immune system, a widespread rash or a higher risk of complications.
  • Blisters contain virus. Someone who has never had chickenpox or been vaccinated against it can get chickenpox after direct contact.
  • Eye pain, a red eye, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, blisters on the nose or eyelid, ear pain, hearing loss, dizziness or a drooping face needs assessment the same day.

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Further reading

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C
ChickenpoxChickenpox is a highly contagious infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, with fever and itchy blisters at different stages. A healthy child usually recovers without specific treatment, but a young baby, pregnant person, adult or someone with weakened immunity can become seriously ill and needs early assessment by telephone.
H
Herpes eye infectionHerpes viruses can inflame the cornea and other parts of the eye. A red painful eye, light sensitivity or blurred vision needs prompt assessment by an ophthalmologist. Early antiviral treatment helps limit damage; ordinary antibiotics do not work against herpes viruses.
F
Fifth diseaseFifth disease is a usually mild infection caused by parvovirus B19. Children often develop bright red cheeks followed by a lacy rash; adults more often have joint pain. The infection needs extra attention during pregnancy, with a chronic condition involving red blood cell breakdown, or with a severely weakened immune system.