Shingles By: Gabby Humphrey Pd

What is Shingles? Shingles is an adult version of the chicken pox, but more painful. It is a viral infection that will appear sometime after one has already had the chicken pox virus, and causes a very painful rash.

Signs and Symptoms The signs and symptoms of shingles usually begin to appear 3 to 4 days before the rash is seen These symptoms include the following Itching, burning, swelling, and redness on one area of the body Swollen lymph nodes Headaches Chills Nausea Fever Fluid filled blisters

Prevention and Control Do not come in contact with anyone who has the chicken pox virus, shingles virus, or happens to have fluid filled blisters. People with these health issues might be very contagious

Medications and Vaccines There are a few vaccinations you could receive from your doctor to help prevent and treat this virus If you have already had chicken pox, and you are 50 years of age and older you could receive the shingles vaccine called zostavax. If you have never had chicken pox you could receive the varicella vaccine. There is also two different tablets to help treat shingles. They are called valacyclovir and famciclovir.

Insurance and Government There is no current government policies or regulations concerning the shingles virus, but if you have health insurance, your insurance company will cover the vaccinations and medications.

Sources "Shingles." n. page. Web. 6 Sep "Shingles Health Center." n. page. Web. 6 Sep Mayo Clinic Staff,. "Shingles." n. page. Web. 6 Sep Google Images