Originally Published September 9, 2012. Updated February 23, 2023.
Many adults 50 years old or older suffer from flare ups of the irritating virus called Varicella-Zoster, otherwise known as shingles. Irritating as it may be, shingles is not contagious to most adults, as most adults either had chicken pox or been properly vaccinated from the virus. That is because shingles and chickenpox are the same virus (Varicella-Zoster), but in different forms. When someone is first exposed to the virus it presents itself as chickenpox. After the chickenpox outbreak has subsided, the virus lies dormant in nerve tissue for many years. When this virus is woken up by a trigger, it presents itself in the form of shingles.
If you’re experiencing shingles, we’re sure you want to keep your loved ones health in mind, especially the younger and more vulnerable members. In this article, we will cover the triggers of shingles, protections for yourself, and measures to take with your loved ones.
Symptoms and Triggers of Shingles
For those not familiar, shingles appears as a red rash that begins a few days after painful itching and tingling usually around the torso area, but can also materialize on the eye or face. Blisters with fluid then form in the area that break open and crust over within a few days. Fever, fatigue, and achiness are also common symptoms of shingles.
Though triggers might differ from person to person, shingles is common in those over 50 years old with weakened immune systems due to disease, medications, cancer treatments or stress. Although there is no cure for shingles, there is treatment that can reduce healing time and complications caused by outbreaks. It is always important to see your doctor for treatment to avoid any complications or infections. Your doctor might also be able to recommend a vaccination.
Vaccinations for shingles
There are currently two different vaccinations available for Varicella-Zoster – one for chickenpox and one for shingles. Varivax is now a common immunization for children to prevent chickenpox. However, it can also be used on adults who have never had chickenpox. Zostavax has been approved for adults over 50 to prevent shingles. While neither vaccine guarantees you will stay chickenpox or shingles free, they can likely guarantee a less severe outbreak and work well as a preventative strategy against the virus. All options should be discussed with your doctor.
Protecting children from shingles and chicken pox
It’s important to take precautions to protect family members who have not had chickenpox, especially children. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Avoid contact: Avoid close contact with someone who has shingles, especially if you have never had chickenpox. The virus can be spread through contact with the rash or blisters. In today’s world, virtual visits have become an increasingly popular way to stay in touch with loved ones. If you have a family member who has shingles and wants to see your children, consider setting up a virtual visit instead of an in-person visit until the rash has cleared.
- Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently, and avoid touching your face. This can help prevent the spread of the virus.
- Cover the rash: If you have shingles, cover the rash with clothing or a bandage to help prevent the spread of the virus.
- Get vaccinated: If you have not had chickenpox, getting vaccinated against the disease can help prevent shingles in the future.
If your grandchildren have yet to endure the experience of midnight oatmeal baths and sleeping with oven mitts to tame the spotted, itchy miserableness that is chickenpox, then you should avoid contact with them until you have fully healed. In addition to children, you should also stay away from any pregnant women and folks who might have a weakened immune system until your blisters scab over.
Shingles can be a painful experience, especially for older adults. However, there are ways to protect yourself and your family members from the virus that causes shingles. If you have young grandchildren or other children in your life who have not had chickenpox, it’s important to take extra precautions to protect them from the virus that causes shingles. By being mindful of symptoms, teaching children good hygiene practices, considering virtual visits, and talking to your healthcare provider, you can help keep your family safe and healthy. Remember: prevention is the key to protecting yourself and your loved ones from shingles.
Many older adults suffer from flare ups of the irritating virus called Varicella-Zoster, otherwise known as shingles. Irritating as it may be, shingles is not contagious to most adults because the majority of them have had chickenpox. However, children are at a higher risk for contracting the virus. If your grandchildren have yet to endure the experience of midnight oatmeal baths and sleeping with oven mitts to tame the spotted, itchy miserableness that is chickenpox, then you should avoid contact with them until you have fully healed. In addition to children, you should also stay away from any pregnant women and folks who might have a weakened immune system until your blisters scab over.
If you’ve never heard of small children suffering from shingles, that’s because infecting a child will not give them shingles; instead, they will develop chickenpox. A bit confusing, I know. You see, shingles and chickenpox are the same virus (Varicella-Zoster). However, when someone is first exposed to the virus it presents itself as chickenpox. After the chickenpox outbreak has subsided, the virus lies dormant in nerve tissue for many years. When this virus is woken up by a trigger, it presents itself in the form of shingles. For those not familiar, shingles appears as a red rash that begins a few days after painful itching and tingling usually around the torso area, but can also materialize on the eye or face. Blisters with fluid then form in the area that break open and crust over within a few days. Fever, fatigue, and achiness are also common symptoms of shingles.
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Carrie Robertson
Research & Community Education
