Find Out How You Can Prevent Shingles

Format: Fact Sheet
Institute: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)

Shingles affects an estimated 2 in every 10 people in their lifetime. It can cause burning or shooting pain and tingling or itching. A rash or blisters eventually develops, and the pain associated with this disease can be severe. If shingles affects your eyes, temporary or permanent blindness can develop.

There is no cure for shingles, but antiviral drugs can reduce the duration and severity of attacks. Antivirals can also fend off the sometimes painful aftereffects of shingles. Additionally, a new vaccine approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in May 2006 may help prevent older individuals—who are eligible to receive the vaccine—from developing shingles.

NIAID has updated Facts About Shingles (Herpes Zoster), which describes what shingles is and the symptoms and complications of the disease. The fact sheet also discusses treatment and prevention of shingles through antivirals and the vaccine.

Next Steps
You can view Facts About Shingles (Herpes Zoster) online at www.niaid.nih.gov/factsheets/shinglesFS.htm.