Can You Get Shingles More Than Once?

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful skin rash caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus—the same virus that causes chickenpox. Many people assume shingles is a “one-time” illness, but that’s not always true. A common concern is: can you get shingles more than once? The short answer is yes, though it is relatively uncommon. This article explains why shingles can return, risk factors for recurrence, and how to prevent it.

Understanding Shingles

After someone recovers from chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus doesn’t fully leave the body. Instead, it stays dormant in nerve cells. Years later, the virus may reactivate, leading to shingles.

Common symptoms include:

Pain, tingling, or burning sensation before the rash appears.
A stripe-like rash on one side of the body or face.
Blisters that crust over within 7–10 days.
Postherpetic neuralgia (lingering nerve pain after the rash heals).

Can You Really Get Shingles More Than Once?

Yes, it is possible to get shingles more than once, although most people experience it only once in their lifetime. Studies show that about 1–6% of individuals will have a second episode.

Why Does Shingles Come Back?

Several factors increase the risk of recurrence:

Weakened Immune System
People with conditions such as HIV, cancer, or those taking immune-suppressing medications are more prone to multiple episodes.
Older Age
Shingles is more common after age 50, and the risk of recurrence increases with age.
Severe First Episode
If your first shingles outbreak was especially painful or widespread, you may face a higher chance of recurrence.
Chronic Health Conditions
Diabetes, autoimmune diseases, or other chronic illnesses can make you more vulnerable.

How to Prevent Shingles Recurrence

While shingles can return, preventive steps can lower your risk:

Get the Shingles Vaccine

The CDC recommends the Shingrix vaccine for adults over 50 and those with weakened immune systems. It is more than 90% effective at preventing shingles and reducing complications like postherpetic neuralgia.

Maintain a Strong Immune System

A healthy lifestyle—balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management—helps keep your immune system strong.

Manage Chronic Conditions

Controlling illnesses like diabetes or autoimmune disorders can reduce your chances of shingles coming back.

Treatment Options if Shingles Returns

If you do experience shingles again, early treatment is key. Antiviral medications such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir can:

Shorten the duration of the outbreak.
Reduce pain and discomfort.
Lower the risk of complications.

Pain management may include over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription medications, or nerve pain treatments.

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When to See a Doctor

You should seek medical care if:

You suspect shingles symptoms are returning.
The rash is near your eyes (to prevent vision loss).
You have a weakened immune system.
You experience severe pain, fever, or widespread rash.

Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes and help prevent long-term complications.

So, can you get shingles more than once? Yes, recurrence is possible, though it is relatively rare. Older adults and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk. The best protection is vaccination, along with healthy lifestyle habits to support immune function.

If you’ve had shingles before, stay alert to early symptoms, and consult a healthcare provider promptly if you notice signs of a recurrence.