Let’s talk about shingles

By Dr Amy Harkness of Bulli Medical Practice

What is shingles?

Herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, is a viral infection which presents as an infectious, blistering and painful rash. It is caused by reactivation of the varicella zoster virus in a person who has had chicken pox (varicella). The lifetime risk of viral reactivation after chicken pox is 50%.

Shingles usually starts with pain or itch and general malaise, followed by a painful, blistered rash on one side of the face or body, lasting about 10 to 15 days. About 10% of shingles infections may be complicated by long-lasting pain and tingling in the area, known as post herpetic neuralgia. Severe disease and complications may occur in the elderly and immunocompromised.

How is it treated?

It is important to see your GP as soon as possible if you think you may have shingles. It can be treated with prescription oral antiviral medication within 72 hours of the rash onset. This medication does not cure the disease but may reduce its severity and the risk of complications.

Who is most at risk?

Herpes zoster can occur at any age, but the risk increases with age. Those at greatest risk of shingles and its complications are adults 50 years and over (particularly 70-plus) and immunocompromised people over 18. Shingles immunisation is recommended for these groups.

What vaccines are available? There are two different shingles vaccines –Zostavax® and Shingrix®. Zostavax® can be used in people 50 and over. It is government funded on the National Immunisation Program for people aged 70. Shingrix® is a privately funded vaccine that can be given to immunocompromised adults (18-49 years) or any adults 50 years and over.

People who’ve had shingles can be immunised at the recommended age, at least 12 months after their confirmed case.

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