Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection that causes a painful, blistering rash and often affects older adults or those with weakened immune systems. But since the COVID-19 pandemic, shingles has been appearing in unexpected age groups—raising new concerns about immunity, stress, and long-term health risks. Without timely treatment, this condition can lead to serious complications, including persistent nerve pain and even cognitive decline.
In an episode of the “Health 1+1” program, Jonathan Liu, a Canadian professor of Traditional Chinese Medicine, discussed both Western and TCM approaches to treating the infection, along with immune-boosting medicinal recipes that may help reduce the risk of shingles.The Importance of Early Treatment
The primary treatment for shingles involves antiviral medications such as famciclovir or valacyclovir, which are typically taken orally. In more severe cases, intravenous acyclovir may be used, particularly in hospitalized or immunocompromised patients.Liu emphasized that early intervention is crucial. Ideally, antiviral therapy should begin before blisters appear. The medication works by suppressing viral replication rather than repairing tissue damage; therefore, starting treatment more than three days after the onset of blisters may significantly reduce their effectiveness.
