7 Myths About Shingles

Medically Reviewed By William C. Lloyd III, MD, FACS

Written By Lorna Collier on August 10, 2021

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  Separating Truth from Fiction About Shingles

  Shingles is a common illness, affecting one million Americans each year. Perhaps its commonness is why there are so many myths and misconceptions about it. People know people who know people who've had it, and pass on various old wives’ tales and other half-truths. But, especially because this is a potentially serious disease, it's important to know what's true and what isn't. That way, you can protect yourself from getting shingles and take the right steps in case you do get it. Here are the myths—and the facts.
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  Myth No. 1: Shingles is for old people only.

  You've seen those ads for the shingles vaccine, which is aimed at people 50 to 60 years old or older. But guess what? Half of shingles cases affect those 60 or younger. The truth is this illness can hit at any age; even children can get it. Be aware that you could be at risk. If or when symptoms strike, you can be vigilant to get early and more effective treatment.
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  Myth No. 2: Shingles is incredibly contagious—stay away from me!

  The confusion over contagion may be caused by shingles’ history. The virus that causes shingles is a reactivated version of the chickenpox virus, which is indeed highly contagious. With shingles however, the virus is generally only transmitted through contact with an open blister, and usually your shingles blisters are only open for several days before they crust over. Keeping them covered with light bandages or clothing can prevent transmission. Also, you can't transmit shingles to someone—only the chickenpox virus. So, the only people who are at risk of contracting chickenpox are those who have never had chickenpox or have not been immunized against the virus, such as infants.
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  Myth No. 3: Shingles is a one-time deal—it can’t come back.

  While it's not common, shingles can recur. About 5% of patients who had shingles between 1996 and 2001 had a second episode within eight years, according to one study. A third instance of shingles is even more rare. Still, having had shingles isn't a get-out-of-shingles-free card. You should still consider getting a shingles vaccine and not dismiss symptoms if you have them.
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  Myth No. 4: Just let shingles run its course.

  Shingles isn't a disease to ignore or trust to Mother Nature. There are effective medications, such as antiviral drugs, that can significantly shorten the life cycle of the shingles rash, reduce pain and itching, and cut the chances of complications (such as long-term nerve pain). Antiviral drugs need to be taken within 24 to 72 hours of your rash appearing in order to be most effective, so don't delay seeking medical attention.
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  Myth No. 5: You can only get shingles on your torso.

  While shingles are most commonly found on one side or the other of your torso, they can also appear anywhere else on—or in—your body. Shingles can pop up in your eyes, which can cause vision problems. Or it can occur in or near your ears and mouth. If you have shingles, watch your face closely and report any spread of lesions to these areas to your healthcare provider. You may need to see a specialist.
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  Myth No. 6: Shingles is bothersome, but no big deal.

  Some people might assume shingles is like chickenpox—you'll be itchy and in pain for a couple weeks and then be fine. And for many, this is true. But about 10 to 15% of people get severe nerve pain that can last months, years or even lifetimes and cause debilitating damage. If shingles gets in the eyes, vision loss—from temporary to permanent—can occur. Studies also show people are more at risk for heart attacks and strokes immediately after a shingles outbreak, with risk continuing for the first few months to first year.
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  Myth No. 7: You can’t get shingles if you’ve had the vaccine.

  The Shingrix vaccine can protect people from getting shingles about 90% of the time or more, but it is not 100%. That means that even with the vaccine, you need to be aware of shingles symptoms. If you experience pain and burning sensation, followed by a rash, you need to tell your healthcare provider so you can begin immediate treatment.

7 Myths About Shingles Symptoms, Treatment & Vaccine

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