Shingles, or herpes zoster, occurs when the dormant chickenpox virus, varicella zoster, is reactivated in your nerve tissues.

One of the most common shingles treatments include pain relievers, antiviral remedies, and antibiotic creams. Other remedies used in the treatment must be taken only after a specialist's recommendation.

Once the rash has developed crusts, the person is no longer contagious. Shingle sis less contagious than chickenpox and the risk of a person with shingles spreading the virus is low if the rash is covered. Wash your hands often to prevent the spread of varicella zoster virus.