Shingles

[Tillie20]

Hi can anyone advise on why you must inform your GP when you have been in contact

With shingles when you are taking mtx x

[oldtimer]

Shingles can be infectious if you come into contact with the little fluid filled spots of shingles in the early stages of the rash. If you are immune suppressed you could catch the virus at that stage only. If the rash is covered, or has scabbed over, it won't be infectious.

The risk is very small, especially as the dose of methotrexate that we receive for Rheumatoid Disease does not knock out our immune system as much as when it is used as an anti-cancer drug.

[Tillie20 in reply to oldtimer]

Thank you very much for the reply my daughter was diagnosed yesterday I saw her on Saturday so thank goodness I did not touch her, but I have left a message for my Rheumy nurse just to be on safe side x

[AgedCrone in reply to Tillie20]

Just keep a lookout for any unusual itchy spots.My shingles started in my hairline above my right eye. Luckily I recognised it & got the anti virals the same day.

I felt a bit iffy for a couple of weeks...stopped the Mtx until the spots dried out & really for me it was no big deal.

But getting the necessary drugs fast is key.