shingles

SHINGLES

By: Sierra Jarmon

THE CAUSE

Varicella-zoster virus

Same virus that causes chickenpox

TRANSMISSION

Direct contact with open sores of shingles rash

Can pass to someone who has never had the chickenpox

Dangerous for newborns, pregnant women, and people with weak immune sysytems

HIGH INCIDENCE GROUPS

Anyone who had chickenpox

People over the age of 50

Those with weakened immune systems

HIV/AIDS, Cancer, Steroids, etc.

INCUBATION PERIOD

Hidden in nervous system for years after recovering from the chickenpox

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Abdominal pain Chills Ptosis Headache Lymph nodes Genital lesions Joint pain

DIAGNOSIS

Skin sample

Infected with varicella-zoster virus

Blood test

Increase in white blood cells

ACUTE OR CHRONIC

Shingles are acute

A complication Post-herpetic neuralgia is chronic

IMMUNITY?

Does not provide immunity

Shingles can recur again

BODY PARTS AFFECTED

The skin

Band of blisters

One side of chest from the spine to the breast bone

PREVENTION

Avoid contact with open sores of the shingles rash

Get Herpes zoster vaccine especially if over the age of 60

COURSE OF TREATMENT

Antiviral medication to reduce pain and complications Should be started

within 24 hours of first symptom

Anti-inflammatory drugs may reduce swelling

Soothing baths and lotions relieve itching and discomfort

LASTLY…

The shingles is not usually terminal

People in the high incidence groups could possibly die if exposed and proper treatment is not received