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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Spread Of Shingles On The Body?

I have the shingles, I went to Dr, got 2 medications which I took. Have the rash in 2 different spots on my back which seem to be healing. Did not blister and did not drain. Was 2 weeks ago when all this started, now I notice I have an itchy red spot further down on my back. Can I spread the original ones by washing with an antibacteral soap with the same wash cloth
posted on Sun, 11 Dec 2016
Twitter Wed, 18 Jan 2017 Answered on
Twitter Thu, 19 Jan 2017 Last reviewed on
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Infectious Diseases Specialist,  's  Response
Hello,

The itchy red spot in your back I think it is not related with shingles because it doesn't spread without blistering and washing with antibacterial soap. The virus is spread through direct contact with fluid from the rash blisters caused by shingles. Sometimes, infected people can transmit the virus and infect other parts of their own bodies (most often the hands, thighs, or buttocks) but only when blisters are present.

This process, known as autoinoculation, is uncommon, since people generally develop antibodies that protect against this problem. If your immune system is weakened, shingles blisters may spread to other parts of your body and it will likely take longer for the symptoms to heal, maybe lasting for months. So you need a physical examination by a dermatologist to see for other reasons.

I hope my answer help you. Let me know if I can assist you further. I wish you a quick recovery.

Regards,
Dr. Monika Dede
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What Causes Spread Of Shingles On The Body?

Hello, The itchy red spot in your back I think it is not related with shingles because it doesn t spread without blistering and washing with antibacterial soap. The virus is spread through direct contact with fluid from the rash blisters caused by shingles. Sometimes, infected people can transmit the virus and infect other parts of their own bodies (most often the hands, thighs, or buttocks) but only when blisters are present. This process, known as autoinoculation, is uncommon, since people generally develop antibodies that protect against this problem. If your immune system is weakened, shingles blisters may spread to other parts of your body and it will likely take longer for the symptoms to heal, maybe lasting for months. So you need a physical examination by a dermatologist to see for other reasons. I hope my answer help you. Let me know if I can assist you further. I wish you a quick recovery. Regards, Dr. Monika Dede