Shingles is a painful viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is also responsible for chickenpox. It leads to a rash with blisters, which can be highly uncomfortable and contagious in certain stages. If you have shingles and are thinking about swimming, the short answer is that it’s not recommended. Swimming can expose others to the virus and may also worsen your symptoms.
Understanding Shingles and Contagiousness
Shingles is not contagious, although the virus can spread to people who have never had chickenpox. Direct contact with the virus-containing fluid inside the blisters can spread it to other people.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately one in every three people in the United States may develop shingles during their lifetime. Studies also indicate that the virus can remain in fluid-filled blisters, making it contagious until they completely scab over. Public pools, hot tubs, and beaches increase the risk of virus transmission, especially in warm, humid environments where the skin is more prone to irritation and infection.
Why You Can’t Swim With Shingles?
Swimming with shingles is not advised, especially when the blisters are still open. Here’s why:
Risk of Spreading the Virus
- When you swim, water can wash over your blisters and carry the virus to others.
- Pools and hot tubs are common areas where people may come into touch with polluted water.
- If your blisters break open in the water, the virus could be transferred to others through shared surfaces.
Chlorine Doesn’t Fully Kill the Virus
- While swimming pools are treated with chlorine, it does not guarantee that the varicella-zoster virus is eliminated.
- Chlorine may reduce the risk but won’t provide total protection against spreading the virus.
Irritation and Delayed Healing
- Prolonged contact with water, particularly chlorinated or salty, can dry out the skin and exacerbate the blisters.
- This irritation may lead to increased pain, itching, and slower healing.
Risk of Secondary Infections
- Open sores from shingles can become infected when exposed to bacteria in pools, lakes, or oceans.
- An infected rash can lead to further complications, requiring medical treatment.
Can You Go to the Beach With Shingles?
Whether you can go to the beach with shingles depends on the stage of your condition. If your blisters are still open, oozing, or haven’t scabbed over, it’s best to avoid public beaches. Sand, saltwater, and sun exposure can irritate your skin, worsen symptoms, and slow the healing process. Additionally, the risk of spreading the virus to others remains high at this stage.
However, if your blisters have completely scabbed over and are no longer open, the risk of transmission is much lower. Even then, you should be cautious. Direct sun exposure can make the rash more painful, so wearing loose, protective clothing is recommended. If you experience discomfort, excessive itching, or pain at the beach, it may be best to wait a little longer before returning. Always listen to your body and make healing a top priority.
Does Swimming Make Shingles Worse?
Here are some reasons why swimming can make shingles worse:
- Water exposure can soften the scabs, making them more prone to breaking and leading to prolonged healing.
- Chlorine and saltwater can cause additional dryness and irritation, making the rash more painful.
- Hot tubs can increase nerve pain, as heat may worsen shingles-related discomfort.
If you’re recovering from shingles, avoiding swimming until your blisters have fully healed is the best approach to prevent worsening symptoms.
When Is It Safe to Swim Again?
You can go swimming again once all your shingles blisters have completely dried and scabbed over. It usually takes about 7–10 days after the rash first appears. At this point:
- The danger of the virus spreading is significantly reduced.
- Your skin is less likely to become irritated or infected.
Even after your rash heals, take extra precautions before swimming:
- Don’t share towels or personal items to prevent spreading germs.
- Make sure you have no open sores that could get irritated.
- Avoid close contact with high-risk people, like pregnant women, newborns, or those with weak immune systems.
Alternatives to Swimming During Shingles
If swimming isn’t an option while recovering, here are some safe alternatives to stay active and relieve symptoms:
Soothing Baths
A lukewarm bath with colloidal oatmeal or cornstarch can help ease itching and discomfort. Unlike chlorinated or saltwater, these ingredients are gentle on your skin. To avoid irritation, gently dry your skin after bathing rather than rubbing it.
Gentle Exercises
Low-impact activities like walking or yoga can keep you moving without making your rash worse. Avoid any activities that create sweating or friction on the afflicted area.
Managing Stress
Because stress can exacerbate shingles symptoms, try relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or light stretching to maintain calm and promote recovery.
How to Care for Your Skin During Shingles
Taking care of your skin is key to reducing discomfort and helping blisters heal faster:
- Keep the rash clean and dry to prevent infection.
- Apply cool compresses to ease itching and pain.
- Use calamine lotion on healed blisters for extra relief.
- Wear loose cotton clothing to avoid rubbing and irritation.
- See a doctor if you have severe pain or signs of infection.
Preventing Future Shingles Outbreaks
The best way to lower your risk of shingles is through vaccination. The Shingrix vaccine is recommended by the CDC for individuals over the age of 50 and those with weaker immune systems. Vaccination minimizes the risk of shingles and associated consequences in the future.
Shingles isn’t just about discomfort—it’s about protecting yourself and others. Avoiding swimming now can help you heal faster and prevent spreading the virus. This experience is a reminder to listen to your body, take care of your health, and be mindful of how your actions affect others. Waiting until you’re completely cured before contemplating vaccinations will help prevent further outbreaks.