Shingles is a painful rash that usually appears on one side of the body, following the path of a nerve. The rash is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is also responsible for chickenpox. After a person has chickenpox, the virus remains dormant (inactive) in their body. However, the virus can reactivate later in life, causing shingles. Shingles is most common in people over age 50, but it can occur at any age.
There are several things you can do to help prevent shingles from recurring. First, if you have had chickenpox, make sure to get vaccinated against the disease. The vaccine can help prevent the reactivation of the virus. Second, if you have had shingles before, there are two FDA-approved vaccines that can help reduce your risk of having the condition again. These vaccines are not 100% effective, but they may help reduce your risk. Finally, if you experience any symptoms of shingles (e.g., pain, itching, or a rash), see your doctor as soon as possible.
Early treatment with antiviral medication can help shorten the duration of symptoms and reduce your risk of complications.
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1) MEDICARE, MEDICAID, TRICARE, and other government healthcare program participants and 2) personal injury and worker's compensation claimants.
