Shepherd Public Schools

Shingles

Shingles is subsequent rash caused by the chicken pox virus that may manifest itself as nerve pain and a skin rash.

A person may not transmit shingles to another person. However, someone who has not had chicken pox that is exposed to someone with shingles may develop chicken pox. The symptoms of chicken pox will appear in 11 to 21 days after exposure. Symptoms include fever, headache and blisters that start as little red bumps and rapidly develop into teardrop shaped, clear blisters on a red base. The blisters quickly form scabs.

A child with chicken pox is contagious (can spread the disease to others) for one to two days before and five to six days after the onset of the rash. Children may return to school seven days after onset of the rash or when all lesions are crusted. In mild cases, with only a few lesions, crusting may completed before this time, in which case children may return earlier if clearance is obtained from the family physician.

Currently there is no specific treatment or medication for the disease. Children should be kept home until all sores have crusted. Articles they have used should be washed and disinfected before reuse. Fingernails should be trimmed to help prevent secondary infection from scratching. There are several kinds of lotions and bath products on the market to help reduce itching; ask your local pharmacist. Rest, fluids and adequate nutrition are important. DO NOT GIVE ASPIRIN. An association between aspirin and the development of Reye’s syndrome has been demonstrated.