Shingles, the disease produced by reactivation of the virus that causes chicken pox within the roots of sensory or cranial nerves, affects 1 million Americans each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Although individuals with shingles are capable of spreading the virus to others, the result is chicken pox, not shingles.
Clinical Characteristics
According to National Institutes of Health dermatologist Stephen E. Straus in the 2008 edition of "Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine," the contagious stage of shingles begins with the appearance of the characteristic, blistering skin rash and ends approximately seven days later, when the lesions crust. People with immune system diseases such as AIDS and those who take immune-suppressing drugs such as prednisone are capable of spreading the virus for much longer.
Mechanism of Transmission
Most cases are transmitted through direct contact with skin lesions, according to Straus. People with immune system problems can also spread the disease through respiratory and salivary secretions.
Attack Rates
The incidence of chicken pox among previously unexposed household contacts of people with shingles is between 20 and 30 percent, reports Straus. The risk to the general population is probably lower.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Herpes Zoster
- "Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine, 7th Edition;" K. Wolff et al.; 2008
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Shingles Information Page
