Doctor Urges People To Take Extra Care As Shingles Cases Rise |
Superdrug Online Doctor has reported a 50% seasonal spike in shingles consultations as the colder weather sets in, with more people seeking help for sudden painful rashes and nerve pain over recent weeks.
Shingles (herpes zoster) is caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus and can affect anyone who has had chickenpox before, but it is most common in older adults and people with a weakened immune system.
While this is a year-round condition, winter often brings added triggers such as stress, disrupted sleep, and a rise in other infections, all of which can impact the immune system and may contribute to flare-ups.
Dr Babak Ashrafi, a member of Superdrug’s Online Doctor team, explained: “Shingles can come as a shock, many people wake up with a burning or tingling pain, followed by a rash that quickly worsens.
“We tend........