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GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Limited 252, Dr. Annie Besant Road, Worli, Mumbai-400030, India

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Shingles, medically known as herpes zoster, is a painful rash illness caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox1. In many parts of India, it is referred to as Nagin disease or Akki disease. The disease typically appears as a painful, blistering rash that follows a nerve path on one side of the body or face20. Around 1 in 3 people may develop shingles disease in their lifetime2. While anyone who has had chickenpox is at risk1, the likelihood increases with age and weakened immunity2,3. Herpes zoster is most common in individuals aged 50 and above2, with about 90% of adults over 50 carrying the virus in their bodies26. Shingles can lead to serious complications, such as postherpetic neuralgia13, vision problems14, or neurological issues15. Vaccination is one of the ways to prevent herpes zoster, reducing the risk of the condition and its complications23. 
For more information, consult a doctor. 
Additional Common Questions

  1. How Can I Recognise the Symptoms of Shingles?
    Shingles usually begins with pain, itching, or tingling in a specific area, followed by a rash that develops into fluid-filled blisters. The rash typically appears in a single stripe on one side of the body or face and may be accompanied by fever, headache, chills, and an upset stomach20.
  2. What Factors Increase the Risk of Developing Shingles?
    The risk of developing shingles disease increases with age, particularly in individuals 50 and older, as the immune system weakens over time2,3. Certain medical conditions, such as cancer6, diabetes9, and asthma12, can also increase the risk. Additionally, individuals undergoing immunosuppressive treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, or long-term steroid use, are more susceptible8. Other factors that may contribute include chronic stress21, a family history of shingles6, and autoimmune diseases6.
  3. Can Shingles Disease Recur?
    Most people experience shingles only once, but in some cases, it can recur, particularly in those with a weakened immune system3,27. However, vaccination can reduce the risk of future episodes23. 
  4. Are There Potential Long-Term Complications of Shingles?
    Most people recover from shingles within 2 to 4 weeks20, but in some cases, it can lead to long-term complications, including:
    Postherpetic Neuralgia13, Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus14, Encephalitis15, Herpes Zoster Oticus16, Pneumonia20, Ramsay Hunt Syndrome (facial paralysis)16.
  5. What is Postherpetic Neuralgia?
    Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN) is a chronic nerve pain condition that affects approximately 1 in 4 people who have had shingles13. It occurs in the area where the shingles rash appeared, even after the rash has healed. The pain can persist for months or even years and can be extremely painful. PHN is more common in older adults and can interfere with daily activities13,20.
  6. Is It Safe to Travel While Experiencing Shingles?
    It is best to postpone travel until the blisters have dried and scabbed over. To reduce the risk of spreading the virus, individuals should keep the affected area covered and avoid close contact with those who have never had chickenpox or the shingles vaccination3.
  7. Are There Preventive Measures for Shingles Other Than Vaccination?
    Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent shingles disease23. Additionally, avoiding contact with individuals who have shingles or chickenpox and practising good hygiene can help reduce the risk19.
    If you have concerns about shingles prevention, consult a doctor for guidance.

 

 

 

Disclaimer

A public awareness initiative by GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Limited, Dr. Annie Besant Road, Worli, Mumbai 400 030, India. Information appearing in this material is for general awareness only. Nothing contained in this material constitutes medical advice. Please consult your doctor for medical advice or any question or concern you may have regarding your condition. Please consult your doctor for the complete list of vaccine-preventable diseases and the complete vaccination schedule for each disease. The doctor shown in this material is a professional model and is used for illustrative purposes only.  Trademarks are owned by or licensed to the GSK group of companies. All scientific information is validated, for details write to us on askus@gsk.com. ©2025 GSK or Licensor.




CL code: NP-IN-AVU-BNNR-260003
DoP: July 2026

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