Facts About Shingles (Varicella-Zoster Virus)

Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After an attack of chickenpox, the virus lies dormant in the nerve tissue. As we get older, it is possible for the virus to reappear in the form of shingles. Shingles is estimated to affect 2 in every 10 persons in their lifetime. This year, more than 500,000 people will develop shingles. Fortunately, there is currently research being done to find a vaccine to prevent the disease.

What is shingles?

Shingles is an outbreak of a rash or blisters on the skin that may be associated with severe pain. The pain is generally on one side of the body or face.

Who is at r to prevent shingles, called the Shingles Prevention Study.  The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) is currently recruiting volunteers for the study site at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. Anyone interested in participating in the Shingles Prevention Study or obtaining further information should call toll-free 1-877-841-6251. The Shingles Prevention Study is a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) cooperative study representing a scientific collaboration between the VA, NIAID, and Merck & Co., Inc., the vaccine's producer.