Patient/caregiver was educated on measures to prevent shingles activation as follows:
- Senior citizens, individuals receiving chemo or radiation therapies, individuals with history of HIV or AIDS, and individuals with history of organ transplantation & prolonged steroid intake can be particularly at increased risk for exposure to infectious agents and diseases. The risk to contact infectious diseases can be particularly high especially during times of season change and epidemic outbreaks. Individuals at risk for immunodeficiency must avoid getting into crowds, to avoid contact with infectious agents. Observe compliance with appropriate infection control measures, such as, proper handwashing, droplet and airborne precautions, to prevent exposure to infectious agents. Observe compliance with antibiotic administration, if any recommended, for control of infections.
- Poor nutrition is an important risk factor for immune deficiency and shingles activation. Observe compliance with eating a healthy balanced diet, with good protein content.
- Observe compliance with daily recommended physical activity and quality sleep hours. Balancing activity and resting hours can play an important role in stress management. Appropriate control and management of stress can help maintain a strong and intact immunity, which can help prevent shingles activation. Also, observe compliance with relaxation measures, such as, yoga, meditation, and massage to help stress control.
