Shingles Transmission: Can You Get It Without Prior Chickenpox?

Yes, you can get shingles from someone if you've never had chickenpox.

Shingles is a viral infection that causes a rash of blisters. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox.

If you have never had chickenpox, you can get the varicella-zoster virus from someone who has shingles. This can happen through contact with the fluid from the blisters or by inhaling the virus.

If you get the varicella-zoster virus from someone with shingles, you will develop chickenpox. After you have had chickenpox, the virus can remain dormant in your body. Years later, the virus can reactivate and cause shingles.

Shingles is most common in people over the age of 50. It is also more common in people with weakened immune systems.

If you have never had chickenpox, you can get vaccinated against the varicella-zoster virus. This vaccine can help to protect you from chickenpox and shingles.