BRIDGEPORT, W.Va (WDTV) – Last week we learned that shingles can sometimes lead to serious complications such as long-term nerve pain and vision loss.

1.) What should you do if you think you have shingles?

If you think you may have shingles, talk to your doctor as soon as possible. It is important to see your doctor no later than 3 days after the rash begins. The doctor will confirm whether you have shingles or not and can make a treatment plan. The shingles test can also help doctors diagnose shingles in people who don’t have a rash. Although there is no cure for shingles, early treatment with medications that fight the virus can help the blisters dry out more quickly and relieve severe pain. Shingles can often be treated at home. People with shingles rarely need to be hospitalized.

2.) How important is it to protect others when you have shingles?

Covering the shingles rash can reduce the risk of spreading the shingles virus to others. People with shingles cannot spread the virus before the blisters appear or after the rash has crusted over.

To prevent spreading the virus to others:

· Cover the rash

· Avoid touching or scratching the rash

· Wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds

· Avoid contact with the following people until your rash scabs over:

– Pregnant women who have never had chickenpox or chickenpox vaccination

– Premature or low birth weight infants

– People with weakened immune systems

3.) What should those watching this interview tonight consider regarding the possibility of shingles?

Before you get shingles, consider getting a shingles vaccine as it is safe, easy and may prevent you from getting shingles and PHN. Healthy adults age 50 and older should get vaccinated with a shingles vaccine called Shingrix. It is given in two doses 2 to 6 months apart. Shingrix is ​​preferred over Zostavax, an older shingles vaccine. Zostavax can still be used to prevent shingles in healthy adults ages 60 and older. For example, you might use Zostavax if a person is allergic to Shingrix, prefers Zostavax, or wants immediate vaccination and Shingrix is ​​not available.

You should try to take the second dose of Shingrix 2 to 6 months after the first dose. If your doctor or pharmacist doesn’t have Shingrix, you can use the Vaccine Finder to find other providers who do have Shingrix. You can also contact pharmacies in your area and ask to be placed on a waiting list for Shingrix. If it has been more than 6 months since the first dose, you should receive the second dose as soon as possible. You do not need to take the first dose again.

You should get Shingrix even if you have had shingles, received Zostavax, or do not remember having chickenpox. However, you should not take Shingrix if you have a fever, illness, or have had an allergic reaction to Shingrix. Ask your doctor if you are not sure what to do.

You can get the shingles vaccine at your doctor’s office and some pharmacies. All Medicare Part D plans and most private health insurance companies cover the cost.

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