Shingles Awareness Week begins Feb. 24, here’s what to know

JACKSON, Tenn. — According to a global survey by GSK In the U.S., more than 40% of people over age 50 have limited or no understanding of shingles.

If you’ve had chickenpox, the virus that causes shingles is already inside your body. This is the case for 99% of adults over 50 in the U.S., although not everyone will develop shingles. The virus can reactivate at any time, and risk increases as the immune system naturally declines with age.

Shingles can be a painful and isolating experience, leading to rashes, blisters and scabs that may take several weeks to heal.

“Anyone with any condition such as diabetes, heart disease, even COPD or asthma — that increases your risk for developing shingles. And so the more you know, the more you can do something about it. And that’s why having this conversation is very important,” said Dr. Bayo Curry Winchell, physician and healthcare advocate.

However, as you age, your immune system weakens, putting most people who are 50 and older at an increased risk for shingles.

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