Herpes zoster

Overview

Shingles (herpes zoster) is a reactivation of the chickenpox virus in the body. Anyone who's had chickenpox may develop shingles. It isn't known what reactivates the virus.

Symptoms

It causes a painful rash that may appear as a stripe of blisters on the trunk of the body.

Treatments

A vaccine can minimize the risk of developing shingles.