Shingles vs. Monkeypox

Understanding the Difference

Shingles and monkeypox are both viral infections that can cause skin rashes, but they are distinct conditions with different causes, symptoms, and prevention strategies. This article provides a clear comparison of the two illnesses, highlighting key differences and emphasizing the importance of prevention, particularly for older adults at risk for shingles.   

Shingles: A Reactivated Threat

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox.  After a childhood bout of chickenpox, the virus lies dormant in the body and can reactivate later in life, often due to age-related decline in immune function or underlying health conditions.   

Symptoms of Shingles

• Painful, blistery rash, typically on one side of the torso   

• Tingling, itching, or burning sensation before rash appears

• Fever, headache, fatigue, upset stomach   

• Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), persistent pain after rash heals   

Risk Factors for Shingles

• Age 50 and older

• Weakened immune system

• Chronic stress

• Certain medications

Shingles Prevention

The shingles vaccine, Shingrix, is highly effective in preventing shingles and its complications.  Two doses are recommended for healthy adults age 50 and older.   

Monkeypox: A Rare but Serious Illness

Monkeypox (mpox) is a viral zoonotic disease, meaning it can spread from animals to humans.  It's caused by the monkeypox virus, a member of the same family as the smallpox virus.   

Symptoms of Monkeypox

• Flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes)

• Rash with flat red spots that evolve into fluid-filled blisters, eventually scabbing over   

Monkeypox Transmission

• Close contact with an infected person's rash, scabs, or bodily fluids

• Contact with contaminated objects

• Direct contact with infected animals (rare)

Monkeypox Prevention

• Smallpox vaccine (JYNNEOS) is recommended for high-risk individuals, such as healthcare workers and those exposed to confirmed cases.   

• Avoiding close contact with infected individuals

• Practicing safe sex

• Maintaining good hygiene

Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	Shingles	Monkeypox
Cause	Varicella-zoster virus (reactivation)	Monkeypox virus
Rash	Localized, one-sided, painful	Widespread, flu-like symptoms
Transmission	Indirect (virus can cause chickenpox in those not previously infected)	Direct or indirect contact
Risk Factors	Age 50+, weakened immunity	Any age, close contact with infected person or animal
Prevention	Shingrix vaccine	JYNNEOS vaccine (for high-risk), avoiding contact

Prioritizing Shingles Prevention

For older adults, preventing shingles should be a priority. The Shingrix vaccine offers safe and effective protection against this potentially debilitating illness.  Talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated and protect yourself from the pain and complications of shingles.