What few people know about this silent disease that can appear without warning

The answer is only partially true. A person with shingles does not transmit the disease itself, but they can transmit the varicella-zoster virus to someone who has never had chickenpox or been vaccinated, causing chickenpox, not shingles. Therefore, during the active phase, it is recommended to avoid direct contact with immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, and newborns.

In recent years, prevention has become paramount. Vaccines are specifically designed to reduce the risk of developing shingles and, if it does occur, to lessen the severity of the illness. Health organizations recommend vaccination primarily for older adults and people with risk factors, as it has proven to be an effective tool for preventing complications.

Beyond treatments and vaccines, shingles offers a clear lesson: health depends not only on the absence of visible illnesses.

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