Individuals with shingles, characterized by lesions and blisters, can bathe and do not need to avoid water or bathing to prevent infection. Shingles is a skin infection caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV). When infected, the affected skin area typically feels hot and painful, with many small, fluid-filled blisters appearing in clusters on inflamed, red skin. About one week later, these blisters dry, turn yellow, scab over, and gradually peel off after 7-10 days. However, scratching, rubbing, or breaking the blisters can cause the fluid to spread to other skin areas or increase the risk of infection, leading to slow healing and potential scarring.

Conversely, not bathing can cause sweat, excess oil, and dirt to accumulate on the affected skin, increasing the risk of secondary infection and worsening the itching and burning sensation. Gentle warm water bathing helps cleanse the skin, reduce itching, soothe pain, and promote relaxation during the illness.

Those with shingles should take quick showers, lasting about 10-15 minutes, using lukewarm water and avoiding water that is too hot or too cold. Do not use a loofah or scrub vigorously on the blistered skin, as this can break the blisters and cause infection. Instead, gently wash with your hands, opting for a mild, fragrance-free body wash without harsh detergents. Mild natural ingredients like oatmeal, chamomile tea, or aloe vera can also be used to help soothe the skin.

People with shingles do not need to avoid water or bathing. Illustration: Vecteezy

After bathing, patients should pat their body dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing. Once the skin is dry, medication, such as acyclovir, antiseptic solution, or skin-soothing cream, can be applied as prescribed by a doctor. Apply a thin layer, avoiding the eyes, mouth, nose, and ears.

Shingles can lead to complications such as vision loss or blindness, or partial facial paralysis. Patients often experience insomnia, exhaustion, and depression. Most shingles patients do not experience recurrence; however, immunocompromised individuals still have a risk of shingles up to two to three times. Studies show that shingles recurrence rates range from 2-18% in the general population, rising to 30% in individuals with chronic illnesses.

The disease can currently be prevented with the Shingrix (GSK) vaccine, which reduces the risk of contracting the disease by 97% in people over 50 and reduces complications by more than 90%. Individuals aged 50 and older receive two doses, two months apart, while individuals aged 18 with underlying medical conditions receive two doses, one month apart.

Doctor Tran Huynh Tan

Medical Manager, VNVC Vaccination System

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