It generally appears due to the reactivation of the same virus that causes chickenpox. Initial symptoms may include: headache, fever, chills, nausea, diarrhea, pain, tingling or stinging. The blisters appear later, usually on the trunk, but the face, eyes and other parts can be affected.

A person affected with shingles cannot transmit it to others. You could, in fact, infect them with chickenpox if they have never contracted it.