Shingles is a painful skin rash, triggered by the varicella-zoster virus – the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a chickenpox infection, the virus lies dormant in nerve tissue and can reactivate years later as shingles, typically manifesting as a band of blisters on one side of the body, often accompanied by significant nerve pain.

We might be able to help if you:

• Are an adult aged 18 or over

Are showing symptoms including:

• A tingling or painful sensation on an area of your skin

• Feeling generally unwell and experiencing headache

• Developing a blotchy rash within a few days of the two previous symptoms (usually on the chest or tummy, but it can appear anywhere on the body, including the face, eyes, or genitals).

A shingles rash typically appears only on one side of your body. A rash that covers both the left and right sides is likely something else, so please consult your GP or call NHS 111.

You should also speak to your GP if you suspect shingles and you’re pregnant.