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..