#千万IP创科普# Shingles, the painful "assassin" that must be prevented

As autumn approaches, the temperature changes greatly, and people are prone to physical fatigue and decreased immunity, which provides an opportunity for the activation of the varicella-zoster virus. Especially the middle-aged and elderly people are facing severe health challenges. Today, let me take you to learn about diseases such as herpes zoster.

01.What is shingles?

Herpes zoster, commonly known as "flying snake", "winding dragon" and "snake sore", is an acute infectious skin disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. This virus is neurotropic and can lurk in the neurons of the dorsal root ganglia of the spinal nerves for a long time after infection. When the resistance is low or when tired, infected or cold, the virus can grow and reproduce again and move along the nerve fibers to the skin, causing severe inflammation of the invaded nerves and skin.

02.What are the symptoms of shingles?

In the early stages of the disease, systemic symptoms such as low fever, fatigue, and loss of appetite may occur. Subsequently, abnormal sensations such as pain, itching, and burning sensations may occur in the affected area. Then, clusters of erythema and papules appear on the skin, which quickly turn into blisters with clear blister fluid and a red halo around them. These blisters are usually arranged along the areas where nerves are distributed, in a belt-like distribution, which is also the origin of the name herpes zoster.

03.How is shingles transmitted?

The transmission route of shingles is "skin-air-respiratory tract". It is transmitted through contact with the patient's respiratory secretions and body fluids in the blisters. Secondly, it can also be transmitted indirectly through contact with the patient's daily necessities, such as towels, underwear, etc.

04.How to prevent shingles?

1. Enhance immunity: Maintain good living habits, such as a balanced diet, moderate exercise, and adequate sleep.

2. Vaccination: There are currently two types of shingles vaccines available, domestic and imported. For details, please consult the local CDC or the local street community health service center.

3. Avoid contact with people with chickenpox: Chickenpox and shingles are caused by the same virus. Contact with people with chickenpox may increase the risk of contracting shingles.