Shingles vs. Herpes: Symptoms, Causes & More

Lifestyle, Fitness & Wellness Crystal L.

Causes

Shingles are mainly caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It is also referred to as herpes zoster because it is a member of the herpes virus family. However, it is important to know that it is not the same virus that causes herpes.

The varicella-zoster virus initially enters the body when you have chickenpox. The virus remains in the system after the chickenpox is treated and can stay dormant for several years. Reactivation of the virus is what causes shingles. Not everyone has had chickenpox contract shingles.

Herpes is mainly caused by two different forms of the herpes simplex virus. HSV-1 is a virus that mostly causes oral herpes, but can spread to other areas of the body. HSV-2 is a virus that is responsible for genital herpes.

HSV-2 also flares up more commonly than HSV-1. Both virus forms remain inactive in the body even when the symptoms are not present.

Crystal L. December 29, 2021

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