Is shingles contagious? I'm curious about its contagiousness.

Is shingles contagious? I'm curious about its contagiousness.

I recently met a friend who has shingles, and I was wondering if it is contagious. Does anyone know about shingles? I am in urgent need of advice from someone who knows the exact details about its contagiousness.

 

Is shingles contagious?

First of all, I heard that shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. This virus remains dormant in the bodies of people who had chickenpox as children and reactivates when their immune system weakens. However, shingles itself is not contagious, but there are reports that the virus can be transmitted to others, causing chickenpox.

 

 

How contagious is it really?

My biggest concern is this: I heard that if you come into contact with someone who has shingles, you can immediately catch chickenpox. Should I avoid contact as much as possible when there are blisters? I understand that once the blisters dry up, it is no longer contagious, but I am still worried just in case.

 

Are there any preventive methods?

If you're worried about being exposed to shingles like I am, how do you prevent it? I understand that washing hands frequently and maintaining good personal hygiene are important, but I would appreciate it if you could share any other effective methods. Especially, how should people with weakened immune systems or pregnant women handle this?

 

I also feel sorry to my acquaintance.

Actually, my biggest concern is here. I'm too sorry to ask that acquaintance directly, "Can shingles be contagious?" because I feel guilty. I'm also hesitant to ask such a question when they're sick. But I can't just pretend I don't know, so I'm really struggling with this.