How to avoid infecting others with shingles

Herpes zoster is a common skin disease caused by infection with the varicella-zoster virus. Although shingles is not as contagious as chickenpox, shingles can be transmitted to other people in clinical settings. Patients who have shingles are generally instructed to avoid intimate physical contact with others, such as hugging and kissing, as much as possible. The patient’s intimate clothing, as well as bed sheets and towels, should be disinfected on time and should not be mixed with others. If possible, patients with shingles can wear a mask at home or not eat at the same table with others. This is especially important for families with elderly people and infants.