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Can you get infected with shingles? Can the use of the same cosmetics or kitchen utensils lead to infection with shingles? The question is answered by the drug. Paweł Żmuda-Trzebiatowski.
Can you get infected with shingles?
Good day. This is Robert. I am a construction worker and currently live in England. I went here for a year to earn some money and I live in a rented room with a certain Spaniard. Unfortunately, last evening, while he was changing his clothes, I noticed that he had a rash on his skin. I know this is shingles. Speaking colloquially, I “reworked” the topic in Poland, because my friend’s brother was suffering from it and his skin looked very similar at that time. However, I am not sure if shingles is contagious.
I’m afraid I might get it, and here I don’t even have any health care. Please give me some tips on how to do good hygiene so I don’t get shingles from this Spaniard. Honestly, I don’t know what he does when I’m not home. It is possible that he uses my washing utensils, among others soaps. The last time I came back, I noticed it was wet because someone was using it. Therefore, I have another question, is it possible to get infected with shingles by using the same cosmetics, towels, or eating with the same cutlery?
I cannot rent a separate room. Thank you in advance for your quick reply! Regards Robert.
The doctor explains how you can catch shingles
Dear sir, let me start by saying that herpes zoster is caused by the same virus as chicken pox. Is it VZV — Varicella Zoster Virus. Primary infection with the virus manifests as chickenpox, a disease characterized by itchy vesicular rash all over the body. After the symptomatic period is over, the virus remains latent and locates itself in the ganglia. When the immune system is weakened, the virus can reactivate. In that case it comes to herpes zoster development.
People predisposed to developing shingles are the elderly, cancer patients, patients with AIDS or patients with diabetes. As for the possibility of getting sick, infection can only occur after contact with the contents of the vesicles. The infectivity is about 0.1% (in the case of chickenpox it is 20%). Treatment of the disease can take place at home, although the hygiene regime should be kept in mind. Your roommate should not use your hygiene items due to the risk of contamination. Daily contact is not contraindicated, just be careful.
Treatment of herpes zoster consists in the use of painkillers, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or opioids. In summary, you do not need to move out, please inform the tenant not to use your personal hygiene equipment. In the case of cutlery or plates, it is enough to wash them under running water with dishwashing liquid.
– Lek. Paweł Żmuda-Trzebiatowski
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