Is there a vaccine for shingles?
There is a shingles vaccine for adults that can lower your chances of getting shingles and help in preventing long-term pain after shingles, however, this symptom only happens to some people with the disease. If you have shingles and then get the vaccine it can aid in reducing symptoms and often results in the rash clearing up quickly.
Can you catch shingles from someone?
If someone has shingles, they can pass the varicella-zoster virus to people who are not immune to chickenpox, meaning they have not had it or have not been vaccinated against it. This can occur through coming into direct contact with the exposed and open sores of the shingles rash. But, once the person has become infected, they will develop chickenpox and not shingles. Although, as the virus lays dormant for a number of years after infection, they may be at risk of it reactivating and when it does, they will get shingles.
Can you get shingles if you haven't had chickenpox?
If you have never had chickenpox and you touch the open wound of someone with the shingles rash, you are likely to get the varicella-zoster virus. But this will first result in chickenpox, and only years later, as the virus stays in your system forever, may it result in shingles if the virus reactivates.
Can you get shingles if you have had the chickenpox vaccine?
Only someone who has had chickenpox can get shingles. However, if you have been vaccinated against chickenpox and have never had it, it is highly unlikely you will be at risk of contracting shingles, but it is always advised to speak to your doctor about your vaccination history if you are unsure.
Do shingles itch?
Shingles is known for its red rash which normally forms a band around either side of your torso and sometimes appears on your face, but it can occur anywhere on the body.
The rash is often itchy and painful. Speak to your doctor about creams and ointments to help soothe any itching or burning sensation you may be experiencing.