Viral Skin Diseases

The varicella-zoster virus is responsible for outbreaks of a condition called shingles, mostly in older adults. The virus also is the cause of chickenpox, and once infected with chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the body for years. It reactivates if the immune system is weakened, attacking the nerves feeding the skin. The result is a painful rash of small, blisters in a defined area. The pain and blisters can persist for months and even years, leading to possible nerve damage and scarring. There is no cure, but there is a vaccine that may prevent shingles.