Debunking Chickenpox to Shingles Myth – Key Facts

We’ve all heard this myth before. “Yeah, I already got chickenpox when I was five years old. So, I won’t get it again. I’m immune to it now.” Well, if that were the case, we wouldn’t be here writing this blog. Now that we’ve written it, read it.

The chickenpox-shingles recurrence myth is actually much more common than you think. Chickenpox, and many other diseases like shingles, jaundice, and typhoid can come at you more than once! Yes, it is hard to believe, but it’s true! So remember not to turn your back on it like how the protagonist always does after thinking the villain is dead. You have to ensure it’s gone and never comes back and that’s what this blog is all about.

Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus which is a highly contagious virus and it looks like an itchy, blister-like rash. Although it primarily attacks children, even adults are susceptible to it. It’s a very inclusive virus.

Its symptoms can include headaches, fever, and tiredness, but its trademark is the itchy, blistery rash that it’s known for.

Shingles: Reactivation of the Virus

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, occurs when the varicella-zoster virus reactivates in the body, usually many years after the initial infection. Unlike chickenpox, shingles has its own identity and it usually presents itself with a painful rash that often infects one side of the body. Its usual symptoms are burning or shooting pain, tingling, and itching in the affected area.

Varicella-Zoster Virus Immunity

When you finally recover from chickenpox after weeks of suffering, the varicella-zoster virus remains dormant in the body's nerve tissues. It’s sleeping, waiting to be awoken. Your immune system develops antibodies that provide some level of immunity. But sadly, this immunity is not absolute.

Reactivation of the Virus

The varicella-zoster virus can reactivate later in life which is what leads to shingles. Ageing, stress, a weakened immune system, or certain medical treatments can trigger its reactivation. Unlike chickenpox, shingles can occur multiple times, especially if your immune system is compromised, so remember to eat those veggies (yeah, literally everything goes there)!

Can You Get Chickenpox Twice?

Well, it is quite uncommon, but it’s definitely possible. This can happen if the initial infection was mild or if your immune response was not strong enough to provide long-lasting immunity. And if you have a weak immune system, there is a higher chance of a reactivation of the virus.

Shingles: Not Just a One-Time Affair

Shingles is probably the best example of how the varicella-zoster virus can cause more than one episode of illness. The virus can reactivate and give you a rash you’d regret. If you’ve had it once, there is a chance you could get it again, especially if you have a weak immune system.

Compromised Immune System

If you haven’t realized by now, your immune system plays the biggest role in deciding whether you get chickenpox or shingles for the second or even the third time for you unlucky ones out there. A strong immune system can keep the virus dormant, while a weakened immune system may allow reactivation of the virus.

Age

As you age, your immune system naturally weakens, increasing the risk of shingles making an unwelcome return. This is why shingles are more common in older adults.

Stress and Illness

Chronic stress and other illnesses can weaken your immune system, making it easier for the varicella-zoster virus to reactivate and cause shingles.

Medical Treatments

Certain medical treatments, such as chemotherapy or immunosuppressive drugs, can compromise your immune system and increase the risk of shingles. So, remember to speak to your doctor before undergoing any long-term medical treatments!

Chickenpox Vaccine

The chickenpox vaccine is great in providing varicella-zoster virus immunity. But just like every vaccine out there, it is not 100% guaranteed that you will never contract it again. There have been a few cases where vaccinated people ended up getting chicken pox again, but the chances of it happening are very low and we recommend everyone to get the shot! You can get them at almost every hospital, so call them and get the jab if you haven’t already!

Shingles Vaccine

The shingles vaccine is usually recommended for adults over 50 as they generally have weaker immune systems and are more likely to contract these horrible rashes. The vaccine also helps prevent another episode of shingles for those who have already had it, although again, it will completely give you varicella-zoster virus immunity. And If you’re wondering if you can take the shingles vaccine, of course you can! But we recommend you consult your doctor before you do.

So, let’s just break down the symptoms of chickenpox and the shingles, so you immediately know what it is once you see the symptoms!

Chickenpox Symptoms

• Red, itchy rash that turns into fluid-filled blisters
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Shingles Symptoms
• Pain, burning, or tingling in the affected area
• Red rash that develops into fluid-filled blisters
• Itching
• Fever
• Headache

When Should You See a Doctor?

Now, there’s no wrong time to ever see a doctor. If you have any of these symptoms and you feel like you need some medical advice, please consult your doctor at the earliest! And if you suspect you have chickenpox or shingles, and we cannot stress this enough, speak to your doctor as soon as you can. And if you have a weaker immune system, we’d be surprised if you haven’t already called them up! Early treatment can help you reduce the severity of symptoms and prevent complications that could have been avoided in the first place.

Now we hope you have learnt something new today! We have successfully busted the chickenpox shingles recurrence myth! Good job! The varicella-zoster virus can cause multiple episodes of illness, particularly shingles, through reactivation.

Vaccination is a great way to reduce the chances of getting either chickenpox or shingles, so remember to get the shot! By debunking medical myths like this, we can all be better informed, live healthy lives, and protect ourselves and our loved ones from contracting these diseases again!