Shingles – Common Questions

Shingles (herpes zoster) is a viral infection caused by reactivation of the varicella‑zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox. After primary infection, VZV remains dormant in dorsal root ganglia and can reactivate later in life, particularly when immunity wanes due to age or immunosuppression. Shingles causes a painful, blistering rash typically limited to a single dermatome and can result in significant morbidity. This course provides healthcare professionals with up‑to‑date, evidence‑based answers to common clinical questions about shingles, focusing on diagnosis, management, prevention, and complications. It highlights current recommendations on antivirals, pain management, vaccination, and special populations such as older adults and immunocompromised patients.