I am uncertain as to what the precise cause was that triggered the shingles virus within me. It happened while I was attempting to conceive. When I first approached my physician about it, her initial question was, “Are you currently pregnant?” I responded with uncertainty, as I had not taken a pregnancy test at that point due to it being too early. Several days later, I discovered that, thankfully, I was not pregnant. Initially, I had suspected a spider bite and proceeded to apply alcohol to the cluster of bumps forming on my shoulder. As I examined the wound, the thought of shingles crossed my mind.

I immediately conducted a Google search for images of shingles. I instantly recognized that it matched my symptoms of the Shingles in my 30s. My physician later confirmed the diagnosis. This was quite a shock as I am in my 30s, and it’s not common for someone in their 30s to get the Shingles. Fortunately, I was able to receive medication promptly. This prevented the spread of the infection. My physician informed me that catching Shingles within 48 to 72 hours greatly increases the chances of preventing its further dissemination.