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Cross Street Medical Clinic offers most relevant screening tests. Speak to our doctors today about what you may need. Female doctors are available by appointment. We ensure patient privacy and confidentiality for all discussions, tests and treatments.
Shingles: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention in Singapore
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes Chickenpox. After recovering from Chickenpox, the virus can remain dormant in nerve tissue and reactivate years later, especially in older adults or those with low immunity.
What Are The Common Symptoms of Shingles
- Pain, burning, or tingling in one area of the body
- A rash that appears on one side of the face or body
- Blisters that scab over in 7–10 days
- Sensitivity to touch
- Fatigue and mild fever
The pain may persist even after the rash heals — this is called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).
Who Is at Risk
Shingles is more common in:
- Adults aged 50 and above
- People with weakened immune systems
- Those who had Chickenpox in the past
Is Shingles Contagious?
Shingles itself is not spread from one person to another. However, the fluid from shingles blisters can cause Chickenpox in someone who has never had it.
What Are The Treatments For Shingles?
Treatment
Early treatment can reduce symptom severity and duration.
A doctor may prescribe:
- Antiviral medication (best started within 72 hours of rash onset)
- Pain relief
- Rest and skin care to prevent infection
How can the shingles vaccine help with prevention?
Vaccination can help lower the risk of shingles and reduce complications like PHN.
Adults aged 50 and above are encouraged to consider vaccination after consulting a doctor.
What are the Possible Complications Of Shingles?
Possible Complications
- Long-term nerve pain (PHN)
- Eye complications if shingles affects the face
- Skin infection if blisters become inflamed
If you’re experiencing symptoms or wish to discuss the shingles vaccination, please contact Cross Street Medical Clinic for an appointment.
📍 Near Chinatown MRT
📞 Call +65 6535 0608 to arrange a consultation.
Shingles is caused by the same virus that first causes chickenpox. Learn more about chickenpox and vaccination here.
Conveniently located near Chinatown MRT in Singapore, Cross Street Medical Clinic provides comprehensive healthcare services for professionals, residents, and businesses in Chinatown, Raffles Place, and Shenton Way. Whether you need discreet STD screening, general health check-ups, vaccinations, or chronic disease management, our experienced doctors ensure quality care with minimal waiting time.
FAQs – Shingles
No, shingles only occurs in people who have previously had Chickenpox.
Not directly. But someone without chickenpox immunity can get Chickenpox from contact with shingles blisters.
As soon as possible — treatment is most effective if started early.
Yes, though rare, shingles can recur in some people.
Yes. It’s generally safe and effective for adults, especially those over 50.
The rash usually heals in 2–4 weeks, but nerve pain can last longer.
Stress can weaken the immune system, increasing the chance of reactivation.
Some insurance plans may cover vaccination; check with your clinic for details.