My husband has developed Shingles. I have had chickenpox and Shingles (twice) does anyone have any info. about if I am likely to get it?
Too late to stay away from him!
Also want to tell EileenH her reduction plan has been followed and I have knocked 1/2 mg. off 4which I have been stuck on.
I am now pacing myself as realise PMR not yet kicked, weak muscles and tiredness, but it's all do able!!
back to the shingle question, any advice on this master forum?
How rude of him!! He could have chosen a more convenient time as far as you are concerned! On a more serious note I do hope he isn't suffering too much - has he been given antiviral medication? It needs to be fast but it does reduce the discomfort some and should shorten the length of the illness.
You don't "catch" shingles - when you have had chickenpox the virus remains in the nerve endings in a dormant state.so there is still the potential for you to develop it again I'm afraid. It is fairly unusual for it to reactivate twice so you were unlucky there. They don't know what wakes the virus up and leads to shingles. I suppose it could be being in contact with the virus so avoiding touching his rash until it is all crusted over would be a good idea. It helps reduce the risk of contact if he covers the rash and both of you wash hands a lot (usual viral advice).
However - if you do feel there is any chance you are developing shingles again go straight to the doctor and ask for antiviral medication. If you are lucky in your GP they may be willing to give you a prescription for acyclovir tablets (or similar) immediately to keep to hand so you can start taking it if there are any symptoms. I don't know that it would work prophylactically (i.e. taking it now in the hope of avoiding it altogether). Your GP might know that.
By the way I should have said you shouldn't have the shingles vaccine - that is one thing your GP may suggest to try and reduce the likelihood of developing shingles again. It is not recommended for anyone on prednisolone.
Nor, I have discovered, for anyone allergic to neomycin or gelatin! That's the first time I have seen that as a contraindication - on a Canadian site with links to government info.
Thanks EileenH
i cannot believe I could get it a third time but will try and keep well rested and stress free! Acyclovir can be given if needed GP OK with that. Funny how one prickles all over, definitely in sympathy!
Husband not being an easy patient!
Now why doesn't that surprise me? ;-)