Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection characterized by painful blisters in a particular area. The reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus causes these symptoms. The varicella-zoster virus also causes chickenpox in a person’s body. Once chickenpox has subsided, the virus remains inactive. If this virus is re-activated because of a weak immune system, it produces blisters as it travels from the nerves to the skin. The blisters or rashes typically occur on the left or right side of the body.

Symptoms of shingles rashes
Shingles is associated with various symptoms, some of which are listed below:

• A mild headache, fever, or feeling of discomfort
• Tingling or pain in a specific area two or four days before the eruption of rashes
• Burning sensation, itching, or increased sensitivity
• Mild or extreme pain in the infected area
• Stinging, tingling, aching, numbing, or throbbing sensations interspersed with quick stabs of agonizing pain
• Rashes which turn to fluid-filled blisters

If one checks pictures of shingles rashes on the internet, they will see that the rashes mostly appear on the torso. These rashes usually erupt around the waist on one side of the body or face.

Is shingles contagious?
During the initial stages, shingles rashes are not contagious and cannot be transmitted. However, the varicella-zoster virus can spread, and if a person has shingles, he or she can spread this virus to others. Typically, this virus spreads through direct contact with cuts or bruises which have not yet crusted over or through the airborne route over long distances of over three feet. The risk of airborne transmission is high in people with widespread herpes zoster or who have limited herpes zoster but also have a weakened immune system. The virus stays in an individual’s body for rest of their lives but in an inactive state. However, in the case of a weak immune system, the virus can become active at any time, and a person might develop shingles. One can look at pictures of shingles rashes to reveal the true state of their skin’s condition.

How can one prevent the spread of shingles rashes?
One can avoid spreading shingles rashes by keeping them covered and clean. People with shingles should stay away from pregnant women and other people who are at a higher risk of getting infected. Shingles is a common condition in the country and nearly half the citizens will show symptoms of the diseases by the time they are 80. Going through a few pictures of shingles rashes may help in educating people about the severity of this skin disease.