Hi,
Thanks for writing to Health Care Magic, I am Dr Asad Riaz, I have closely read your question and I understand your concerns, I will hereby guide you regarding your health related problem.
Shingles is a delayed activation of the virus hidden in the body after an episode of
chicken pox. This can get activated during periods of
stress or a compromised immune system. It causes painful grouped skin vesicles on one side of the body starting from the back n doesnot extend beyobd specific areas of skin
As for your question regarding it being contagious, contact with a person with shingles doesnot lead you into developing shingles. It can only cause chicken pox, that too if you haven't had that in the past. In that case, within 72 hours of contact you can start
acyclovir to prevent such development
I hope this answered your question, if you have more feel free to ask.
Regards.
Dr.Asad Riaz.
General and Family Physician..