Is Shingles Contagious? What You Need to Know

If you or someone close to you has shingles, you may wonder: is shingles contagious? The short answer is no—you cannot catch shingles directly from another person. However, the virus that causes shingles can spread to others who have never had chickenpox. Here's what you need to know to stay safe.

How Shingles Spreads

Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox. You cannot get shingles from someone who has it. But if you've never had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine, you can catch VZV from direct contact with fluid from shingles blisters. This would give you chickenpox, not shingles.

A person with shingles can spread the virus only while the rash has open, oozing blisters. Once the blisters crust over and scab, usually within 7 to 10 days, they are no longer contagious. The virus does not spread through coughing, sneezing, or casual contact.

Can You Get Shingles If You Never Had Chickenpox?

No, you cannot get shingles if you never had chickenpox. Shingles happens when the chickenpox virus, which stays dormant in your nerves after recovery, reactivates later in life. Without that initial infection, there's no virus to reactivate.

However, many people don't realize they had chickenpox. Some cases are so mild that symptoms go unnoticed. Studies show that over 99% of Americans aged 40 and older have had chickenpox, even if they don't remember it.

Who Is at Risk?

About 1 in 3 people in the United States will develop shingles in their lifetime. The risk increases with age and for those with weakened immune systems. People with shingles should avoid close contact with pregnant women, newborns, and anyone who hasn't had chickenpox or the vaccine.

How to Prevent Spreading the Virus

If you have shingles, keep the rash covered with a clean bandage. Avoid touching or scratching the blisters, and wash your hands often. Stay away from people who haven't had chickenpox until your rash has completely scabbed over.

Vaccination Can Help

The CDC recommends two doses of the shingles vaccine (Shingrix) for adults 50 and older. Adults 19 and older with weakened immune systems should also get vaccinated. The vaccine greatly reduces your risk of developing shingles and its complications.

When to See a Doctor

If you notice a painful rash with blisters, especially on one side of your body, see a doctor right away. Early treatment can help the rash heal faster and reduce the chance of lasting pain. Seek immediate care if the rash appears near your eyes.