The varicella-zoster virus, or VZV, is usually associated with itchy, scratchy, polka-dotted children. VZV causes chickenpox, the infection that results in extremely itchy spots all over the body.
But if you’ve had chickenpox before, your relationship with VZV may not be over just yet. In this video, learn more about how the virus might “wake up” in your body and cause a second infection, known as shingles.
References
American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). Shingles: overview.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019). About shingles (herpes zoster).
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2023). Shingles information page.
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Written by:
Lauren Smith, MALauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.
Reviewed by:
Mandy Armitage, MDMandy Armitage, MD, has combined clinical medicine with her passion for education and content development for many years. She served as medical director for the health technology companies HealthLoop (now Get Well) and Doximity.
