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Condition

Pediatric Herpes Zoster (Shingles)

Key Points About Shingles in Children

  • Shingles (herpes zoster) is a painful skin rash. It’s caused by the virus that causes chickenpox.
  • Shingles in children is not common.
  • The symptoms start with pain, burning, tingling or itching on one part of the face or body. The virus can then cause a red rash or small blisters, usually on one side of the body.
  • Treatment right away with antiviral medicine may help lessen how long the symptoms last and how serious they are.
  • If your child’s pain is severe, the healthcare provider may prescribe strong pain medicine.
  • There is a shingles vaccine for older adults but not for children. But a child who has had the chickenpox vaccine may have milder symptoms of shingles.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Dermatology Treatment at Children's National Hospital

The pediatric specialists at Children's National Hospital have the expertise to diagnose, treat and manage conditions of the skin, nails and hair common in infant and younger patients. Discover more about the treatments we offer.

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PATIENT STORY

Xavion's Story

Providers Who Treat Herpes Zoster (Shingles)

    Departments that Treat Herpes Zoster (Shingles)

    Dermatology

    The Division of Dermatology at Children's National Hospital continues to expand services as more families seek our expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the skin, hair and nails.