Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus-the same virus that causes chickenpox. Many Australians wonder how contagious shingles is and what precautions they should take. This blog post provides a clear and up-to-date explanation of shingles’ contagiousness in Australia, based on current health guidelines and research as of 2025.
Can You Catch Shingles from Someone Else?
Shingles itself is not directly contagious. You cannot catch shingles from another person. Instead, shingles occurs when the varicella-zoster virus, which lies dormant in nerve cells after a past chickenpox infection, reactivates within the body.
However, a person with shingles can transmit the varicella-zoster virus to someone who has never had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine. In such cases, the exposed person may develop chickenpox-not shingles.
How Does the Virus Spread?
The virus spreads primarily through direct contact with the fluid from shingles blisters. Touching the blisters or items contaminated with blister fluid-such as clothing, bedding, or towels-can lead to transmission.
Unlike chickenpox, shingles is not usually spread through coughing, sneezing, or casual contact. Covering the shingles rash with a dressing helps reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
When Is Shingles Contagious?
People with shingles are contagious from about 1 to 2 days before the rash appears until all the blisters have dried and crusted over. This period typically lasts 7 to 10 days but can be longer in individuals with weakened immune systems.
What About Disseminated Shingles?
In rare cases, people with disseminated shingles-where the rash is widespread and not confined to a single area-can be more contagious. In such situations, airborne transmission is possible, and strict infection control precautions are necessary, especially in healthcare settings.
Who Is at Risk?
- People who have never had chickenpox or the vaccine are at risk of catching chickenpox from someone with shingles.
- Pregnant women, newborns, and immunocompromised individuals are particularly vulnerable to severe illness if exposed.
- Most Australian adults have had chickenpox by age 30, so they are generally not at risk of catching chickenpox or shingles from others.
Precautions to Prevent Spread
- Cover shingles blisters with a clean, dry dressing until they crust over.
- Avoid scratching or touching the rash.
- Practice good hand hygiene.
- Avoid close contact with pregnant women, infants, and immunocompromised people until the rash has healed.
What to Do If You Are Exposed?
If you have never had chickenpox or the vaccine and are exposed to someone with shingles, seek medical advice promptly. You may require vaccination or immunoglobulin treatment to reduce the risk of developing chickenpox.
In Australia, shingles is less contagious than chickenpox and spreads only through direct contact with blister fluid. While shingles itself cannot be caught from others, the virus can cause chickenpox in susceptible individuals. Taking appropriate precautions, such as covering the rash and practising good hygiene, helps protect vulnerable people. If you have concerns about exposure or symptoms, consult your healthcare provider.