May 2, 2011
In this week's What's Going Around, CBS19 is checking in with Dr. Theresa Rupp from Buckingham Family Physicians. She says herpes zoster, also known as shingles, is what' going around Central Virginia this week.
Dr. Rupp says shingles is basically a reactivation of the chicken pox virus. Symptoms include sharp or burning pain, followed by a rash. The rash typically last for seven to 14 days, but pain can disappear with the rash or last much longer
Treatment includes an antiviral medication and often medicine for the pain. The chance of getting shingles usually increases with age. African-Americans are less likely to get it.
When it comes to prevention Dr. Rupp suggests people over the age of 60 get a zoster vaccine unless their immune system is compromised.
Not only is Dr. Rupp tracking the shingles virus she's also passing along an important health reminder. She's encouraging everyone to take a little time to get active and exercise regularly.
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