Philippine health experts have teamed up with global biopharma company GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) to kick off a nationwide campaign raising awareness about the commonly ignored yet serious viral infection called "shingles."

Emphasizing the severity of the condition, GSK highlighted that shingles can lead to "serious complications" if not properly treated, particularly among older adults.

Shingles, also referred to as "Herpes zoster," is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox.

Shingles is 'painful'

According to experts, contrary to popular belief, shingles is more than just a rash; it brings about "intense pain," described as aching, burning, stabbing, or shock-like sensations, typically affecting adults aged 50 and above and immunocompromised individuals.

This pain, as explained by the experts, is often accompanied by a skin rash that can blister and scab over within 10 to 15 days.

One distinguishing feature of shingles is its unilateral presentation, typically confined to "one area" of the body, unlike chickenpox, which can appear on multiple areas simultaneously.

Moreover, individuals affected by shingles may experience post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), a persistent nerve pain lasting weeks, months, or even years following the rash.

Meanwhile, a dermatologist Irene Robredo-Vitas, highlighted the prevalence of shingles cases observed by dermatologists, emphasizing the need for awareness and education about the condition.

"Karamihan talaga ng may shingles ang unang una talagang nakakakita ay mga dermatologist (Most of those with shingles are first seen by dermatologists," she said.

Additionally, infectious disease specialist Dr. Rontgene Solante echoed this sentiment, stressing that shingles can lead to serious complications.

He said: "Shingles is not just an ordinary rash. It has complications that can lead to higher morbidity. It can lead to depression, anxiety, and it can also affect your vision."

Not a sexually transmitted disease

Furthermore, dispelling myths surrounding shingles, Solante clarified that it is "not a sexually transmitted" disease but rather a "reactivation of the chickenpox" virus due to weakened immunity, particularly in individuals aged 50 and above.

Related to this, renowned journalist and shingles survivor Karen Davila shared her personal experience, underscoring the emotional toll and urging others to prioritize awareness and prevention.

Moreover, with 21 percent of the 50 to 59 age group in the Philippines experiencing the highest incidence of shingles, GSK underscored that the campaign seeks to equip the public with accurate information and dispel misconceptions.

GSK emphasized the importance of consulting healthcare professionals for prevention and treatment options, especially as the virus responsible for shingles lies dormant in the majority of adults' bodies following a previous chickenpox infection.

Through educational materials and outreach efforts, the campaign aims to empower Filipinos to make informed decisions about their health and take proactive steps in managing and preventing shingles, ultimately improving the quality of life for those affected by this debilitating condition.