Measles vs. Shingles — What's the Difference?

Measles, caused by the measles virus, primarily affects children and is marked by symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic red rash. It spreads through respiratory droplets and is highly contagious among those not vaccinated. Shingles, on the other hand, occurs when the varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox, reactivates later in life. It leads to a painful rash, usually localized to one side of the body or face, and can affect adults who have previously had chickenpox, especially those with weakened immune systems.

While measles can be prevented through vaccination (the MMR vaccine), there is no cure once infected, and treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications. Shingles, although also not curable once the rash appears, can be managed with antiviral medication if administered early, and a vaccine is available to reduce the risk of developing shingles and its complications.

Measles rash is generalized and spreads over the body, while the shingles rash is more localized and often wraps around one side of the torso or face. The measles rash typically appears around 14 days after exposure to the virus and after several days of high fever, whereas the shingles rash develops as a band of blisters following pain, itching, or tingling in the affected area.

Complications from measles can be severe and include pneumonia, encephalitis, and death, particularly in children under five and adults over 30. Shingles complications can involve postherpetic neuralgia, where severe pain persists long after the rash has cleared, along with possible vision or hearing problems if the rash affects the face.

Both diseases underscore the importance of vaccination for prevention. The MMR vaccine protects against measles, and the shingles vaccine is recommended for older adults to prevent shingles and its complications.