Shingles is caused by the chickenpox virus and is an infection of a nerve and skin which can cause a very painful rash. It is common for shingles to follow a period of feeling run down and generally unwell. The rash that occurs from shingles is usually present on one side of the body, and can even appear on the face and eyes, often preceded by a tingling sensation. The pain is often described as burning or stabbing. Whilst you cannot pass shingles onto other people, it is important, when infected, to avoid people who are vulnerable i.e. babies, pregnant women and those who have not had chickenpox in the past.