Herpes is a virus that can cause a variety of illnesses, including SHINGLES. SHINGLES is an infection caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus. It is characterized by a painful rash with blisters that can appear anywhere on the body. It is most common in people over the age of 50, but can affect anyone who has had chickenpox. Treatment for SHINGLES includes antiviral medications and pain relief.