Those affected byshinglestypically only experience the condition once (like chickenpox).

However, in rare cases, shingles recurs.

Estimates vary as to how common recurrence is.

A gloved hand pointing to skin with herpes zoster (shingles) rash

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Some populations, including those that are immunocompromised, are more prone to it.

However, having had shingles is no guarantee that you wont have it again.

Theres always a risk of relapse.

How Long Between Shingles Attack and Recurrence?

Recurrence within three years is much rarer.

Are there differences between episodes?

Recurrences lead to the same class of symptoms, however the specific location of the rash will be different.

Notably, too, blistering associated with relapse can make skin particularly sensitive and painful to the touch.

Is Treating Relapse the Same?

The approaches to treating shingles and any relapse are the same.

That said, there is no outright cure for this disease, so treatment focuses on managing symptoms.

These approaches include:

Prevention

What can you do toprevent shingles from relapsing?

The approaches here can be broken into self-care to boost immunity, and taking a vaccine.

In the United States, the primary approach is Shingrix (recombinant zoster vaccine).

Until recently, an older option, Zostavax, was recommended for seniors to vaccinate against shingles.

The more proactive you are about your health, the better off youll be.

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