What causes the singles virus and can you catch it from somebody that has it?

Answer by  DrMom (854)

Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, herpes zoster, not to be confused with sexually transmitted herpes. There is no evidence to suggest contagion with casual contact.

Answer by  wikkiwikki (175)

Shingles is the herpes zoster virus, which is the same virus responsible for chickenpox. During the blister phase, direct contact with the rash can spread VZV to a person who has no immunity to the virus. Until the rash has developed crusts, a person is extremely contagious. The person is no longer contagious after the rash has disappeared.

Answer by  janeplowmanwindstreamnet (292)

The shingles is not contagious. It is actually caused by the chickenpox virus. After you have chickenpox as a child, the virus lays dormant in your body for years. Many years later something triggers it, but this time it comes back as shingles.

Answer by  cindy1645 (128)

Shingles has been known to be caused by stress. It has also known that shingles can only occur in people who previously had chicken pox.