I had my first outbreak about 20 years ago, and didn't know what it was. My sister seen the marks on my back and told me about it. It was discomforting, so I visited a local Dr. I took pills or something for about 10 days - no more problems for 6-7 years, and they came back - on my stomach area - and I knew it then. Another trip, more pills, and it was gone. I have recently been told my my PC to have the Shingles Shot - not at $228.00. I've met folks who have had serious bouts with this, so I just hope I never get them bad; the shingle shot doesn't do any good at this point - it will not stop them from returning, why bother spending the money. Safe travels.