The onset of colder weather has led to a significant rise in shingles consultations, with Superdrug Online Doctor reporting a 50% increase in cases. This spike comes as more individuals seek medical advice for painful rashes and nerve pain associated with shingles, medically known as herpes zoster.
Shingles is a reactivation of the chickenpox virus, affecting anyone who has previously contracted chickenpox. It is particularly prevalent among older adults and those with weakened immune systems. The colder months often exacerbate the condition due to increased stress levels, disrupted sleep, and a greater incidence of other infections, all of which can undermine immune function.
Dr Babak Ashrafi, a member of Superdrug’s Online Doctor team, emphasized the urgency of addressing shingles promptly. “Shingles can come as a shock,” he noted. “Many people wake up with a burning or tingling pain, followed by a rash that quickly worsens. We tend to see more people seeking help in the colder months, when immune systems are under extra strain. The key message is, don’t wait it out. The sooner you start treatment, the better the outcome.”
Understanding Shingles Symptoms
Typically, shingles begins with a tingling, burning, or stabbing pain on one side of the body, which is then followed by a red rash that develops into fluid-filled blisters. This rash usually appears on the chest or back but can also manifest on the face. While many cases improve within 2 to 4 weeks, the condition can be extremely painful and may result in complications, notably post-herpetic neuralgia, a long-lasting nerve pain that is particularly problematic for older adults.
Health authorities, including the NHS, advise individuals experiencing these symptoms to consult a pharmacist for treatment. In some cases, immediate medical attention is necessary. Individuals should seek emergency services if they are pregnant, breastfeeding with a rash on their breasts, have a rash on their eye or nose, experience changes in vision, or have a severely weakened immune system from treatments like chemotherapy. Additionally, those aged 17 years or younger should also seek immediate help.
Vaccination and Contagion Risks
There is a shingles vaccine available for various age groups, including all adults turning 65, those aged 70 to 79, and individuals aged 18 and over with significantly weakened immune systems. Eligible individuals who have not yet been contacted for an appointment are encouraged to reach out to their general practitioners.
It is important to note that shingles is not contagious in the same way as other infections. According to the NHS, while individuals cannot spread shingles to others, those who have not had chickenpox before or have not received the chickenpox vaccine may contract chickenpox from someone with shingles. This risk underscores the need to avoid contact with pregnant individuals, those who have not had chickenpox, immunocompromised individuals, and young babies.
If diagnosed with shingles, the NHS recommends that individuals stay off work or school if the rash is still oozing fluid and cannot be covered or until the rash has dried out. The infection can spread only while the rash is active and oozing.
As cases of shingles rise with the changing seasons, public health officials emphasize the importance of awareness and prompt action. Staying informed can help mitigate the risks associated with this painful condition.
