You may also consider getting vaccinated for Shingles. Shingles is an infection caused by the same virus that causes chicken pox. This virus is called the varicella zoster virus. Even after chicken pox blisters heal, the varicella zoster virus stays in the body for life. If it becomes active again, it causes shingles. Two out of every 10 people will get shingles in their lifetime. This risk increases as you get older, especially over 50 years of age. Shingles is a painful, blistering rash that can last several weeks and cause skin infections and scarring. It is very important for people with a weak immune system to see their healthcare providers right away if they think they have shingles.