Chickenpox and shingles are common viral infections that affect many people throughout their lives. While often discussed separately, they share a deep connection rooted in their origin. Understanding this link is important for comprehending how these conditions manifest and how they can be prevented.
The Virus Behind Both Conditions
Both chickenpox and shingles are caused by the same microorganism, the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). The initial exposure to VZV typically results in chickenpox, which is the primary infection. This highly contagious illness often presents with an itchy, blistering rash, commonly seen in childhood.
After recovery from chickenpox, VZV travels along nerve pathways and remains dormant in nerve cells, specifically in the dorsal root ganglia near the spinal cord. Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, occurs when this inactive virus reactivates. This reactivation usually happens decades later, often due to factors like aging or a weakened immune system.
Direct Answer: Can You Get Shingles Without Chickenpox?
Generally, an individual cannot get shingles if they have never been infected with the varicella-zoster virus. Shingles is a reactivation of VZV that has been dormant in the body following a previous infection. Therefore, prior exposure to the virus is a prerequisite for developing shingles.
There are, however, nuances to this general rule. Some individuals may have experienced a “subclinical” VZV infection, meaning they were infected but never developed noticeable symptoms of chickenpox. In such instances, they could still develop shingles later in life, as the virus is present and capable of reactivation.
The chickenpox vaccine, or varicella vaccine, also introduces a weakened form of VZV into the body to create immunity. While it significantly reduces the risk of getting chickenpox, individuals who have received the chickenpox vaccine can, in rare cases, still develop shingles. The vaccine virus can become dormant in the nerves and reactivate years later, similar to the wild-type virus. It is much less common to develop shingles after vaccination compared to developing it after a natural chickenpox infection.
Preventing Shingles and What to Do
Preventing shingles primarily involves vaccination, especially for adults. The shingles vaccine, Shingrix, is recommended for preventing shingles in adults. It is advised for healthy adults aged 50 and older, and for individuals aged 19 and older who are immunocompromised due to disease or therapy.
For those who have never had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine, the varicella vaccine is recommended to prevent the initial VZV infection. Children typically receive two doses, with the first between 12 and 15 months of age and the second between 4 and 6 years of age. Adolescents and adults who haven’t had chickenpox or been vaccinated should also receive two doses, usually given 4 to 8 weeks apart.
If an individual is unsure about their past chickenpox history, a blood test can determine if they have VZV antibodies, indicating prior exposure or vaccination. This can help guide decisions about vaccination.