It usually runs it's course inVirus Proof Protocol Reviewapproximately two weeks, during which the blister builds a crust then heals, sometimes leaving a scar. After the blister is crusted over, it is no longer contagious. However, a person who has never had chickenpox and is exposed to an active shingles infection, runs the risk of getting chickenpox.
The VZV virus exists in a latent stage for years after a chickenpox event. Certain conditions and medications can reactivate the virus to return as shingles. It is a painful disease that often calls for medical attention to manage the pain and other symptoms. There are approximately one million cases of herpes zoster in the US per year.
Reports indicate that African Americans have a low incidence of shingles infection than Caucasians. The exact reason for this is not known.
Initially, the pain is the first inclination of a shingles attack due to damage to the nerve damage, and occurs in the area where the virus has been hibernating, but the rash may not yet have come to the skin's surface. Other symptoms may include those resembling the flu, such as fever, chills, and headache.
