Can you get shingles after receiving the measles vaccine in childhood?

Dec 12, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

The measles vaccine targets the measles virus, while shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus; these are different types of viruses, and the measles vaccine cannot directly prevent infection or reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus. If someone has previously been infected with chickenpox (which often occurs as an asymptomatic infection in childhood), the virus can remain dormant in nerve ganglia and may reactivate later in adulthood when immunity declines, leading to shingles.

Generally speaking, even if a person received the measles vaccine in childhood, they may still develop shingles. The measles vaccine does not directly prevent shingles but can reduce the associated risk. If concerned, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional in advance. Detailed explanation is as follows:

The measles vaccine targets the measles virus, whereas shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus—two distinct types of viruses. Therefore, the measles vaccine cannot directly prevent infection or reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus. If someone has previously had chickenpox (which most people contract asymptomatically during childhood), the virus remains dormant in nerve ganglia and may reactivate later in life when immunity declines, leading to shingles.

However, the measles vaccine can enhance overall immune system function, indirectly improving the body's resistance to various viruses. When the immune system remains strong, it may delay or suppress the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, thereby reducing the likelihood of developing shingles in adulthood—though it cannot completely eliminate this possibility.

If symptoms suggestive of shingles appear—such as one-sided body pain followed by clusters of blisters on the skin—prompt medical attention is recommended to avoid delayed treatment and complications like postherpetic neuralgia. Maintaining a regular daily routine and good immune health is also important in daily life.

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Can vaccination cure spider sores?

Vaccination cannot treat an active outbreak of shingles; its primary role is to prevent the disease from occurring or reduce the risk of recurrence, and it cannot replace standard treatments after onset. For individuals who have never had shingles, receiving the relevant vaccine can lower the risk of infection. For those who have previously been affected, vaccination can reduce the likelihood of recurrence. Daily skin care should be maintained, and during an outbreak, avoid friction or scratching the affected areas.

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Does shingles in young people indicate HIV?

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which remains dormant in nerve ganglia for long periods and becomes active again when immunity declines. In young people, shingles is often associated with temporary immune suppression due to factors such as sleep deprivation, high stress levels, or underlying medical conditions. It manifests as painful skin vesicles on one side of the body and can be effectively treated with antiviral therapy. It is not related to HIV.

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Can you still get shingles if you had chickenpox as a child?

After infection with the varicella virus, the virus is not completely cleared from the body but remains dormant in nerve ganglia. When immunity declines (such as due to excessive fatigue, aging, or chronic illness), the latent virus may reactivate and spread along nerves, causing herpes zoster. Patients develop blisters distributed along the affected nerves, accompanied by significant pain. The illness typically lasts 2–4 weeks.

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What causes recurrent chickenpox and what should be done about it

Shingles recurrence is mainly caused by reactivation of latent varicella-zoster virus, decreased immune function, viral mutations, etc. Management requires timely antiviral treatment, enhancing immune function, avoiding triggering factors, symptomatic relief, and regular monitoring of the condition. Seek medical attention promptly if symptoms of recurrence appear. Initiate antiviral medication as early as possible after diagnosis.