When many people hear the word shingles roof or house is often associated with it, but it holds another meaning than just what is on top of a home. Many people are unaware of Shingles the virus, and if someone does it is associated with the older population. It is crucial for everyone to learn about Shingles. Read on to learn more about Shingles, how it is spread, and why we need to keep everyone safe.

Shingles is a disease caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox; it’s a reawakening of old chickenpox infection. It most often occurs in elderly people and people of any age with weakened immune systems.

How common is Shingles?

• Approximately 1 million people every year will get Shingles.
• 1 of every 3 people in the United States will get shingles during their lifetime.

Common symptoms:

• Rash, usually in a band-like pattern on one side of the body
• Severe pain, sometimes the pain can last for months or years.

Is Shingles contagious?

• Although people with shingles cannot give someone else shingles, they can pass the chickenpox virus to others through direct contact with the rash.

For example, if a grandchild of someone with shingles has not yet had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine, they could become infected with the virus and develop chickenpox. If the rash has yet to develop or has crusted, it is not likely to be contagious.

There is a simple way to keep our loved ones safe. A vaccination is available, come back to the article and read about the Shingle vaccine, Shingrix.