A colleague has developed shingles. I haven't had chicken pox before and have type 1 diabetes. Does it mean I could be at a higher risk of getting chicken pox should they still work or no higher risk than anyone else who hasn't had it? Do diabetics really have a lowered immune system or is it myth? Although it cannot be helped, I'm just worried as I cannot afford to be off work should I catch it.
Shingles
- Thread starter _becs
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As I understand it, you need to have direct contact with one of the blisters, or the fluids from them to contract chicken pox from someone with shingles, so it's not a big risk especially if you avoid sharing towels or playing contact sports with the affected person.
Check with 111 or your doctor if you're worried.
Check with 111 or your doctor if you're worried.
I had chicken pox as a kid. So now that I am over 70 I am entitled to a free Zostavax vaccination which I had a month or so ago against shingles here in Australia.
Here's the Australian health website link that may be of use to you,
http://www.health.gov.au/internet/immunise/publishing.nsf/Content/immunise-herpes-zoster
Here's the Australian health website link that may be of use to you,
http://www.health.gov.au/internet/immunise/publishing.nsf/Content/immunise-herpes-zoster
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Is shingles contagious?
https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/shingles
It is said we do, but I'd imagine a lot will depend on your diabetes control and whether you have other on-going health issues, I've lived with type 1 for 35 years and don't get ill any more than the next person.
