Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. In industrialized countries, one in three people will experience shingles at some point, with outbreaks having significant impacts. The virus remains dormant in the body after a person has had chickenpox, typically during childhood. It can reactivate later in life, often due to a weakened immune system, stress, or aging, leading to shingles.
The initial symptoms include itching, pain, and sometimes fever or a flu-like feeling. This is followed by a rash with red spots and blisters, usually appearing in a band-like pattern on one side of the body. Shingles is not usually dangerous but can be very painful and may lead to complications such as chronic pain, blindness, or strokes.
Treatment involves antiviral medications to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms, and pain relief measures. Vaccination against the varicella-zoster virus is available and recommended for older adults and those with weakened immune systems. Despite the availability of a vaccine, it is not part of the standard vaccination program in the Netherlands, unlike in some other countries.
Women are slightly more at risk than men, possibly due to hormonal influences on the immune system. The disease can be particularly severe if it affects the face, potentially leading to eye infections and, in rare cases, blindness. Early medical intervention is crucial to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Georges Verjans contributed to this article.
