I have Shingles

[jrbl77]

I need some help or advice. I started the new year off with a case of the shingles. Woke up yesterday morning with a quarter size rash on the back of my neck- it is hard to examine that area yourself. Went to urgi care this am and saw a doc. The diagnosis was shingles. I don't know where I picked this up, but I could have had it dormant in my body for a while. I have started on valtrex. The doc at urgi care said I was not contagious. I called my job and waiting to here back about my working status. I have been trying to research my status as to wheter I'm contagious or not. I work on a med surg floor with mostly elderly, debilitated pts. Has anyone else had shingles? Did you work? I appreciate any help in this matter. The last 3 years have not been my best years and I was hoping this year ws going to be better, but now I have my doubts.

[jrbl77, RN]

thanks for all the responses. Can't go back to work until the shingles are crusted over, probably later this week.

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

Good luck....glad you checked with your provider/occ health. Take care.