Herpes zoster Flashcards
1
Q
What is herpes zoster/shingles?
A
Shingles is an acute, unilateral, painful blistering rash caused by reactivation of the Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV)
2
Q
What is the ‘shingles’ vaccine?
A
Offered to patients aged 70-79
Is live-attenuated and given sub-cutaneously
(C.I immunosuppression)
3
Q
What is the management of shingles?
A
Oral aciclovir is first line - main benefit of treatment is a reduction in the incidence of post-herpatic neuralgia
