ARE YOU AT RISK?
Shingles is the reactivation of the varicella zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox.1 After a person gets chickenpox or is exposed to the varicella zoster virus, the virus stays asleep inside the body for life, usually not causing any problems or symptoms.2,3 However, as we age, our immune system naturally weakens over time which may allow the inactive virus to reactivate, causing shingles.4 It typically produces a painful rash that often blisters, and scabs over in 7 to 10 days and clears up within 2 to 4 weeks.5 Shingles usually appears on one side of the body or face.5 The most common complication of shingles is postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) which is a long-term nerve pain that can occur in the area where your shingles rash appeared.6 The pain from PHN can be so severe and debilitating that it interferes with daily life.6
Find out if you are at risk by answering the following questions.
The Shingles Risk Test is not intended to be used (or be relied on) for the diagnosis, prevention, monitoring, prediction, prognosis, treatment or alleviation of disease. Its purpose is oriented to medical education. The Shingles Risk Test does not aim to substitute professional counselling and medical advice, professional diagnosis, service, treatment or monitoring of any condition. If you feel any discomfort or have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a healthcare professional.
- SIDS, Handbook on Adult Vaccination in Singapore 2020.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prevention of herpes zoster: recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). MMWR, 2008 May;7(RR-5):1-30.
- Kilgore PE, et al. J Med Virol. 2003; 70 (suppl 1):S111-S118
- CDC. Shingles (Herpes Zoster): Clinical Overview. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/shingles/hcp/clinical-overview.html
- CDC. Shingles (Herpes Zoster): Signs & Symptoms. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/shingles/about/symptoms.html
- Wehrhahn MC, Dwyer DE. Aust Orescr 2012;35:143-7
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