Shingles, or herpes zoster, is a painful skin rash caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus—the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus doesn’t leave the body. Instead, it lies dormant in the nerve tissues and can reactivate later in life, especially when the immune system is weakened due to age, stress, or illness.
Shingles typically present as a band of painful blisters on one side of the body or face, accompanied by burning, tingling, or itching sensations. While most people recover within a few weeks, some experience long-term complications such as postherpetic neuralgia, a type of nerve pain that can last for months or even years.
Can You Get Shingles More Than Once?
Yes, it is possible to get shingles more than once, especially if you have not received the shingles vaccination. Although most individuals only experience shingles once in their lifetime, about 1 in 3 people who’ve had it can suffer a recurrence. The likelihood of a second episode increases with age, compromised immune function, and failure to get vaccinated.
A common misconception is that once you’ve had shingles, you’re immune for life. However, the immunity gained after a shingles episode is not always strong or long-lasting. Recurrence can happen in a different part of the body and may even be more severe than the first episode, depending on overall health and immune status.
Risk Factors That Increase Recurrence
Several factors can elevate your chances of getting shingles again. Age is one of the most significant—people over 50 are at much higher risk. Medical conditions that weaken the immune system, such as cancer, HIV/AIDS, or autoimmune diseases, can also increase the likelihood of recurrence.
In addition, individuals who experience high levels of ongoing stress or who take immunosuppressive medications are more susceptible. These factors weaken the body’s ability to suppress the varicella-zoster virus, making it more likely to reactivate.
The Role of Shingles Vaccination
The shingles vaccination is the most effective way to reduce both your risk of developing shingles and the likelihood of it recurring. Currently, vaccines like Shingrix are recommended for adults aged 50 and above, even for those who have already had shingles. This vaccine helps boost the immune response and significantly lowers the chances of the virus reactivating again.
Not only does shingles vaccination reduce the incidence of shingles, but it also lessens the severity and duration of symptoms if the virus does reactivate. It has been shown to be over 90% effective in preventing shingles and its complications in older adults, making it a critical part of preventive healthcare.
What Happens Without Vaccination?
Choosing not to get vaccinated leaves you vulnerable to a recurrence of shingles. Without the protection of the shingles vaccine, your body must rely solely on its natural immunity, which may not be strong enough to prevent future outbreaks—especially as you age.
The consequences of multiple shingles episodes can be more than just physical discomfort. Repeated infections may lead to complications like chronic nerve pain, vision or hearing loss (if the rash appears near the eyes or ears), and in rare cases, neurological issues such as encephalitis. These risks highlight the importance of proactive measures to protect long-term health.
Managing Shingles If It Returns
If you suspect a recurrence of shingles, early medical intervention is crucial. Antiviral medications can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms when started promptly. Pain relief, whether through medication or supportive therapies like cool compresses, also plays a key role in managing discomfort.
Maintaining a healthy immune system through balanced nutrition, stress management, regular exercise, and proper sleep can also help prevent future recurrences. However, these lifestyle measures should complement, not replace, medical prevention strategies like vaccination.
Conclusion
Yes, you can get shingles more than once without vaccination—and the risk of recurrence grows with age and weakened immunity. While a prior episode may offer some temporary protection, it is not enough to guard against future outbreaks or their potentially serious complications.
The shingles vaccination remains the most effective defense, not only preventing recurrence but also reducing the severity of symptoms if shingles does return. Taking this preventive step is essential for anyone looking to safeguard their long-term health and avoid the disruption and pain of repeated infections.