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Shingles
Chickenpox is the virus herpes zoster and is highly contagious. The virus can be re-activated later in life and cause shingles in some people. Sometimes this can be years after the initial chickenpox infection.
Chickenpox
Chickenpox most commonly occurs in children. Sores that begin as small lumps turn into blisters and then scabs form. The sores develop over a few days, so at any one time the child will have sores in various stages of development. Chickenpox is spread by coughing and direct contact. People rarely get chickenpox twice. Children are infectious from two days or so before the rash appears—during the runny nose phase—and until all blisters have formed crusts.
Shingles
Most often occurring in adults, herpes zoster is a short-lived viral infection and is more commonly known as shingles. It is characterised by the development of painful groups of small skin eruptions. Skin eruptions generally occur on an area on one side of the body. Symptoms may persist for three to five weeks, but in most cases they clear up after two weeks. The virus can be spread by direct contact with infected people. Shingles occurs more commonly among older people. Adults with cancer, patients on immunosuppressive drugs and those with compromised immune systems are also more susceptible.
What are the signs of symptoms?
Chickenpox. Mild fever, runny nose, fatigue and a general rash.
Shingles. Slight fever and painful skin eruptions that generally appear on one side of the body.
How can I prevent chickenpox and shingles?
Pregnant women should avoid contact with anyone who has chickenpox. Children should be kept away from other children until all the blisters have crusted and the child feels well. Children should follow good personal hygiene, such as covering their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, disposing of soiled tissues, washing hands carefully and not sharing eating utensils, food or drinking cups. See the Department of Health and Ageing's Australian Immunisation Handbook for vaccination information.
Shingles is a reactivation of a previous chickenpox infection. Almost everybody gets chickenpox by the time they are an adult and therefore are at risk of getting shingles.
How are chickenpox and shingles treated?
See your general practitioner for advice on ways to minimise the discomfort associated with the symptoms of herpes zoster.
Where can I get more information?
Talk to your general practitioner or contact your local Community Health Centre or Public Health Unit. You will find the number in the Health Services listing in the information pages at the front of your phone book.
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