Shingles

Shingles develops when the varicella-zoster virus remaining in the body after chickenpox becomes active again.

It usually causes pain, burning and fluid-filled blisters on one side of the body.

Early medical assessment is important, with antiviral medicines and pain treatment considered when needed.

Virus released from the blisters can cause chickenpox, rather than shingles, in people without immunity to chickenpox.

A rash around the eye or nose, or any change in vision, requires urgent medical assessment.