What should you know about skin shingles?

Shingles often begins with burning, tingling or skin pain in a band on one side of the body or face. A red rash may then develop into fluid-filled blisters. The rash usually follows the path of a nerve rather than spreading evenly across both sides. The blisters contain virus that can cause chickenpox in someone who has not had chickenpox or vaccination, so keep the rash covered and avoid close contact with vulnerable people until it has crusted.

Contact a GP or other clinician promptly when a one-sided painful blistering rash appears. Antiviral Treatment may be considered, particularly when started early, and a clinician can recommend suitable pain relief. Keep the skin clean and dry, wear loose clothing and avoid scratching or breaking blisters. A Shingles Vaccination is a preventive discussion for eligible people; it does not treat an active rash.

Seek urgent medical advice for a rash near the eye or ear, facial weakness, severe headache, confusion, widespread blisters, high fever or rapidly worsening illness. Eye involvement can threaten vision. Also seek advice if pain persists after the rash settles or if the skin becomes increasingly hot, swollen or pus-filled.

Ask whether the rash is shingles, whether antiviral treatment is suitable, how to protect household contacts, what pain plan to use, and whether vaccination should be discussed after recovery.