Ailments & ConditionsYour Health

Chickenpox vs. Shingles: What Are the Difference?

Causes of Chickenpox and Shingles

Causes of Chickenpox

Both shingles and chickenpox are caused by the varicella zoster virus. However, the underlying mechanism is not the same. In general, the varicella zoster virus can be found anywhere and may be spread easily through coughing and sneezing. Therefore, you may get chickenpox after close contact to infected people. The symptoms may also occur when you are exposed to the fluid in the rashes from people with shingles. It typically takes around 10 to 21 days for initial signs to show up. [2]