General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
Seek immediate care if the rash affects an eye, spreads, causes unbearable pain or is accompanied by high fever and feeling very unwell. Facial paralysis, muscle weakness or difficulty urinating also require immediate assessment.
Shingles is reactivation of the chickenpox virus. Localised pain or burning followed by clusters of blisters on one side may suggest it. A doctor must confirm the diagnosis.
Seek prompt advice for suspected shingles: home care does not replace a consultation. Seek immediate care if pregnant, immunocompromised, diabetic or elderly, because the risk of complications is higher.
Blister fluid can transmit chickenpox to someone who has never had it. It does not directly transmit shingles, which results from reactivation of that person’s own virus.
Until crusts form, protect the lesions, wash your hands after touching them and use your own towels. Avoid physical contact with people who have not had chickenpox, especially pregnant or immunocompromised people and very young infants.
Consult again if pain persists after the rash has ended or if new symptoms appear. Follow-up allows assessment of a complication and the care needed.
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