The host Fernando Rocha 48, revealed that he received a diagnosis of herpes zoster. The disease, caused by the virus varicella-zoster manifests itself on the skin, generating rashes that last from two to four weeks.
In a video, published on his Instagram profile on Thursday (27), the journalist took the opportunity to issue a warning about the disease and detail its causes and effects.
“[…] If you have ever had chickenpox, are over 40, 45 years old, you may have shingles. It is a disease that also occurs in relation to low immunity and emotional factors. This chickenpox virus, called varicella zoster, is stored in the body, waiting for a window of opportunity”, he began in his statement.
Although he doesn’t know exactly what led to the diagnosis, Fernando has had the disease for about a week. “I’ve already taken the necessary antiviral medication for a week and now I’m dealing with the after-effects of this disease, which is the pain. But it’s a lot of pain. A stabbing pain, it’s like a sword sticking into my ribs,” he said.
“My statement is just to say the following: there is a vaccine for shingles. The vaccine is only available in the private sector, it is expensive, around R$800 and there are two doses. But the pain of this disease is very great”, he concluded.
Watch the full video
What is herpes zoster?
Popularly known as shingles, herpes zoster is a viral inflammation of the skin’s nerves, which manifests itself through red, painful lesions with blisters. Caused by the varicella-zoster virus, herpes on the skin can lead to complications.
A CNN Radio infectious disease specialist Clovis Arns da Cunha explained that it differs from herpes simplex. Although they are of the same gender, the simple one usually has vesicles on the lip, genitals and arms, and “has a lot of recurrence, which can appear in cases of stress”.
Zoster generally “affects only one side of the body, in the eye area and forehead or chest and back”, according to Arns. See the causes, symptoms and treatment here.
Source: CNN Brasil
I’m Robert Neff, a professional writer and editor. I specialize in the entertainment section, providing up-to-date coverage on the latest developments in film, television and music. My work has been featured on World Stock Market and other prominent publications.
