Shingles affects 1 in 3 Americans, is more likely if you've had chickenpox. Aging increases the risk, with potential complications like postherpetic neuralgia, pneumonia or death. Early signs include pain and fever, rash typically appears on one side/one Dermatome. Shingrix for prevention, and antiviral medications can reduce severity. Start the treatment within 72 hours with Acyclovir, Valcyclovir or Famcyclovir  for seven days or so. PHN, lasting over three months, is a common complication in 10-50%. Corticosteroids aren't routinely recommended. If you're over 50 and had chickenpox, your immune system decline puts you at risk. Testing is done with the PCR with swabs of the lesions, CSF, tissue, bronchial  lavage, vitreal, aspirate, corneal swab. What is Shingrix is over 90% effective and administered in two doses. Receiving both shots 2-6 months apart is crucial, and the CDC recommends it over ZOSTAVAX. Not recommended in pregnant or nursing. You can get shingles at zero co-pay .