What Is the Connection Between Chickenpox and Shingles?
Chickenpox and shingles are two diseases that are both caused by the varicella-zoster virus. People who have been sick with chickenpox are also at risk for shingles. Initial exposure to the varicella-zoster virus usually occurs during childhood and causes chickenpox. The chickenpox symptoms resolve, but the virus remains resident and can reactivate later in life, causing shingles. Vaccinations are available for both chickenpox and shingles. Though chickenpox and shingles are caused by the same virus, chickenpox is easily spread from person to person, through the air, or contact with chickenpox blisters, while shingles is not contagious. Once a person has been infected with chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus remains dormant in the nerve roots. In some people, especially those with weakened immune systems or the elderly, the virus reactivates and causes shingles rather than a second outbreak of chickenpox.
