For many people, shingles only becomes real when it happens to someone they know. It affects far more people in the UK than most expect, with NICE estimating that almost 4 in every 1,000 adults develop it each year, and the risk rises sharply with age. Because of how common it is, questions like whether you can get shingles twice or what triggers it to come back are becoming increasingly important.
Although shingles is usually seen as a one-time illness, the virus can reactivate, sometimes more than one time, especially when the immune system is under pressure. Understanding why this happens, the symptoms to look out for, and how to treat shingles safely can help you feel more prepared and supported.
Can you get shingles twice, and why does it happen?
Yes, you can get shingles twice. In some cases someone can get shingles twice or even more than twice if their immunity is low or if the first infection happened at a young age. Shingles appears when the chickenpox virus that remains in your body becomes active again.
Once the virus is triggered, it travels along the nerves and causes a painful rash. Factors that increase the chance of shingles returning include long-term stress, certain illnesses, older age, and immune system changes.
Is shingles infectious, and how does it spread?
Shingles itself is not highly infectious. However, the fluid inside the blisters can pass the chickenpox virus to someone who has never had chickenpox. This means shingles can spread only through direct contact with the rash while it is still blistering.
It is safe to be around others once the blisters have fully dried. Until then, keep the rash covered and avoid close contact with anyone who is pregnant, has a weakened immune system, or has never had chickenpox.
Can children get shingles, and what are the warning signs?
Children can get shingles, although it is not very common. It usually happens if they have had chickenpox early in life or if their immune system is weakened.
Common signs and symptoms of shingles
Common symptoms of shingles include:
- A tingling or burning feeling on one side of the body
- A stripe like rash that becomes painful blisters
- Fever and tiredness in some cases
If your child shows these symptoms, early support from our pharmacists can help you understand the next steps and whether further care is needed.
Symptoms to watch for if shingles returns
When you get shingles more than one time, the symptoms are usually similar to the first episode. Most people notice:
- Pain or sensitivity in a specific area
- A patch of skin that tingles, burns, or feels numb
- A red rash that turns into fluid filled blisters
- Skin that becomes very painful to touch
It is important to act quickly if the rash appears near the eyes. This needs prompt attention to prevent complications.
How can you treat shingles at home, and when should you seek support?
Knowing how to treat shingles early can make a big difference to your recovery. Simple steps include:
- Resting as much as you can
- Keeping the rash clean and dry
- Using cool compresses to soothe discomfort
- Taking paracetamol for pain relief if suitable for you
Antiviral medicines can also be used in some cases, especially when started within the first seventy-two hours. Our experts can guide you on whether this may be helpful depending on your symptoms and medical history.
If your shingles is very painful, spreading quickly, or if you think you have had shingles more than one time already, speaking to our pharmacists can help you get timely and safe advice.
How can you reduce the risk of shingles returning?
Although you cannot fully remove the virus from your body, there are steps to help lower the chance of shingles coming back. These include looking after your general health, managing stress levels, eating balanced meals, sleeping well, and keeping long-term conditions under good control.
A vaccination is also available for older adults and people with certain health conditions. It cannot treat active shingles, but it can help prevent future episodes or make them less severe.
Where to Get Expert Support for Shingles Symptoms
If you are worried about your symptoms, unsure whether you can get shingles more than one time, or want advice on the best way to manage or prevent future flare-ups, our pharmacists are here to support you. Book your consultation to talk to our pharmacists today at Pharmacy To My Door.
FAQs
Yes, it is possible to get shingles twice in the same area because the virus follows nerve pathways. However, the second episode may appear in a slightly different spot along the same nerve.
There is no set timeline. Some people may get shingles more than one time within a few years, especially if their immune system is low, while others may never experience it again.
Shingles is not considered infectious before the rash shows. It becomes infectious only when blisters are present and leaking fluid, as this can spread the chickenpox virus to others.
Cool clothes, rest, loose clothing and paracetamol can help ease discomfort. Starting antiviral treatment early may help in some cases, so it is best to seek guidance from our pharmacists if symptoms are new or severe.
Yes, children can get shingles even after the vaccine, although the risk is lower. The virus can still stay inactive in the body and reactivate later if the immune system becomes weakened.
Yes, conditions that affect immunity, such as long-term illnesses or severe stress, can increase the chance of getting shingles more than once. Managing your overall health can help reduce this risk.
