DEAR DR. GOTT: What is the treatment for shingles? I have had them for three months now. How long do I have to wait after an episode before I can get the vaccine?
DEAR READER: Shingles is a viral infection. It is actually a second infection caused by the chickenpox virus. Symptoms typically begin with pain, numbness or tingling on one side of the body. It most commonly occurs on one side of the chest, wrapping around to the back. The next most common area is the face, but it can present anywhere on the body, including the eyes, which can cause permanent damage if left untreated.
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