Photo source: GSK 

Did you know that globally, shingles affects up to 1 in 3 people during their lifetime? And did you know that chickenpox and shingles are related?¹

This Shingles Awareness Week (February 26 - March 3), let us debunk some myths about shingles and recognize its risks.

What is shingles? 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines shingles as a painful, usually itchy, rash that develops on one side of the face or body. The rash consists of blisters that typically scab over in 7 to 10 days.² It is often accompanied by fever, headache, fatigue, and sensitivity to light.

Who is at risk of getting shingles?

Shingles may occur in any individual who have had exposure to the chicken pox virus,³ but is more common in those over the age of 50 and individuals with weakened immune systems.⁴

Individuals aged 50 years and above are usually prone to shingles for several reasons. One primary factor is the age-related weakening of the immune system, which becomes less efficient at protecting the body from infections as people grow older.⁴

However, recent global data commissioned and funded by GSK for Shingles Awareness 2024 reveals that 86% of individuals over 50 significantly underestimate the risk and severity of shingles. Additionally, 28% of those surveyed believe shingles to be harmless. These findings highlight the need for increased awareness about shingles.⁵
  

Addressing misconceptions about shingles 

Myth 1: Shingles is the same disease as chickenpox

Fact: Although shingles and chickenpox are caused by the same virus, they are not the same disease. Following chickenpox, the varicella zoster virus remains dormant in the nervous system. Shingles results from a re-activation of the virus long after the chickenpox illness has disappeared.⁶ 

Myth 2: Shingles is airborne 

Fact: Shingles cannot travel through the air like other airborne diseases such as flu or COVID-19.⁷ 

Myth 3: You can catch shingles from someone with shingles 

Fact: You cannot get shingles from someone who has shingles.⁸

However, people who have never had chickenpox or did not get chickenpox vaccine may contract the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) from someone with shingles.⁸ 

This transmission may occur through direct contact with the fluid from shingles rash blisters or breathing in virus particles that come from the blisters. If infected, they will develop chickenpox, not shingles. They could then develop shingles later in life.⁸

Myth 4 - You cannot develop shingles if you have already had shingles

Fact:  While the majority of people who develop shingles only have it once, it is possible to develop shingles more than once in a lifetime.⁹   There is a 6-10% chance that a person who has had shingles before can get shingles again.^10-11

Myth 5 - Shingles cannot lead to long-term or serious complications 

Fact: Following the rash, a person may experience post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), a long-lasting nerve pain that may last weeks or months, and in some cases, several years.¹² PHN is extremely painful and may interfere with daily life.¹³ Also, 1 out of 4 patients with shingles can get infected near the eye area and contract Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus (HZO) which may lead to blindness in extreme cases.¹⁴

Photo source: GSK 

Who is at risk of getting PHN?

The risk of PHN increases with age. An older adult with shingles is likely to develop PHN and may have long lasting and severe pain than a younger person with shingles. People younger than 40 years old rarely experience PHN.¹²

Shingles may also lead to serious complications involving the eye, including vision loss. Rarely, shingles may also lead to pneumonia, hearing problems, brain inflammation (encephalitis), or even death.¹² 

Almost all shingles-related deaths occur among seniors and individuals with compromised immune systems, highlighting the increased vulnerability of this age group to the disease and its severe outcomes. 

Early diagnosis and treatment are vital because they may help reduce the severity of the disease and prevent long-term complications.

Myth 6 - Shingles cannot be prevented 

Fact:Getting vaccinated may help reduce your risk of getting shingles.

Since it is possible to get shingles more than once, it is important to get vaccinated even if you have had shingles before.¹³ 

Lead a healthy lifestyle as much as possible. It is important to slot in regular health check-ups with your healthcare professional.

Visit your healthcare professional regularly and proactively as you get older – routine check ups to prevent issues from worsening are important.
 

Ultimately ageing is a natural process that happens to everybody. We can work with our bodies to ensure that the negative impacts of age are minimize, allowing us to appreciate the greatest wisdom achieved with age and enjoy life to the fullest. 

Reliable sources of information 

While search engines may be helpful for gathering information, individuals concerned about shingles, especially those at high risk, are encouraged to seek guidance from healthcare providers. 

By understanding the symptoms, complications, and preventive measures associated with shingles, and consulting your doctor, you may take proactive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones.

For more information about shingles, visit whatisshingles.ph.

References: 

1. Shingles vaccination is the best way to help protect yourself. (2023, May 8). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

2. Signs and Symptoms of Shingles (Herpes Zoster). (2023, May 10). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

3.  NHS, Shingles, February 2018. Accessed July 2022.

4. FEAM; 2022;1-64; Immunisation for old adults in Europe: scientific and social strategies (v1.0) – vaccination contribution (p.12)

5. Data on file; 2023 N544547_00;1-4 (v1.0)

6. Shingles (Herpes Zoster). GSK US. 

7. CDC;2023;1; Shingles (Herpes Zoster); Cause and Transmission (v1.0)

8.   Cause and Transmission. (2023, May 10). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

9.  New global survey finds widespread misunderstandings about shingles despite its lifetime prevalence. GSK. 

10. Yawn BP, et al. Mayo Clin Proc. 2011 Feb;86(2):88-93.

11. Batram M, et al. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2021 Jun;11(3):1009-1026.

12.Cause and Transmission. (2023, May 10). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

13. Complications of Shingles (Herpes Zoster). 2023, May 10). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

14. Harpaz R, et al. MMWR Recomm Rep 2008;57:1-30.