Shingles — infographic

Signs and symptoms

• tingling
• burning pain
• itching
• tiredness
• sensitivity to light
• headache
• red, bumpy rash
• blistering rash

Pain that lasts for more than 3 months after having shingles is called post-herpetic neuralgia.

Treatment

There is no cure for shingles, but antiviral medicine can help treat the condition.

• See your doctor for a prescription of antiviral medicines as soon as possible after symptoms develop.
• Start the medicine within 3 days of a rash appearing.
• If you are pregnant, check with your doctor first.

For pain relief, use paracetamol or non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. Be sure to keep your rash dry and clean, and wear loose-fitting clothes.

Vaccination

Vaccination is your best protection against shingles.

Shingles vaccination is recommended for:

• everyone aged 50 years and over
• people aged 18 years or older with a weak immune system
• people over 50 years who have contact with someone who has a weak immune system

Some people are eligible for free shingles vaccination.

Not sure what to do next?

Use healthdirect's Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention.