What happens after a telemedicine visit for Shingles (Herpes Zoster) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for shingles (herpes zoster) in children, you will usually receive guidance on how to care for the rash and manage pain at home. The healthcare provider may recommend antiviral medicines to help the illness heal faster and reduce symptoms. It is important to watch the rash carefully and follow instructions on hygiene to prevent spreading the virus to others. Sometimes, follow-up visits may be needed to check progress or if symptoms worsen. If your child develops new symptoms like high fever, severe pain, or signs of infection, seek in-person medical care promptly. Telemedicine can help with early advice and triage but cannot replace hands-on exams or emergency treatment. Always keep track of any changes and ask questions during or after the visit to ensure your child gets the right care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• High fever above 38.5°C (101.3°F) lasting more than 2 days
• Rash spreading rapidly or developing pus, swelling, or increased redness
• Eye involvement such as rash near or on the eye or changes in vision

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of shingles symptoms
• Providing advice on home care and symptom management
• Prescribing antiviral medications when appropriate
• Monitoring symptom progress and advising on follow-up

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations requiring hands-on assessment
• Treating severe complications such as eye involvement or bacterial skin infections
• Managing emergency situations like severe pain or neurological symptoms

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine visit, the healthcare provider may prescribe antiviral medications to start as soon as possible. They will also advise on how to keep the rash clean and dry to prevent infection. Pain relief options, such as over-the-counter medicines, may be recommended. You will receive instructions on monitoring your child's symptoms and when to seek further care.

How to Care for Your Child at Home

Keep the rash covered with loose, breathable clothing to avoid irritation. Encourage your child not to scratch the rash to reduce the risk of infection and scarring. Use cool compresses to soothe itching or discomfort. Make sure your child rests and drinks plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

When to Seek In-Person Medical Care

If your child develops a high fever, worsening rash with pus or swelling, difficulty moving the affected area, or severe pain that does not improve, seek emergency care. Also, if your child has a weakened immune system or the rash spreads near the eyes, urgent evaluation is important.

Follow-Up and Monitoring

Your healthcare provider may schedule a follow-up telemedicine or in-person visit to check how the rash is healing and to adjust treatment if needed. Keep a record of any new symptoms or changes to discuss during follow-up.

Preventing Spread to Others

Shingles can spread the varicella-zoster virus to people who have not had chickenpox or the vaccine. Keep your child away from pregnant women, newborns, and people with weakened immune systems until the rash crusts over. Practice good hand hygiene and avoid sharing towels or clothing.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have a clear view of the rash area ready to show during the video call
• Prepare a list of your child's symptoms and when they started
• Have a list of current medications and allergies available
• Note any questions or concerns you want to discuss
• Ensure a quiet and well-lit environment for the telemedicine visit

After your tele-visit

• Start prescribed antiviral medications as directed
• Keep the rash clean and dry, avoid scratching
• Use recommended pain relief methods
• Monitor for any worsening symptoms or new red flags
• Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments
• Practice good hygiene to prevent spread

FAQs

Can my child spread shingles to others?

Yes, shingles can spread the varicella-zoster virus to people who have never had chickenpox or the vaccine. The virus spreads through direct contact with the rash. Keep your child away from vulnerable people until the rash crusts over.

How long does shingles usually last in children?

Shingles in children often lasts 2 to 4 weeks. The rash typically forms blisters that crust over and heal. Early treatment with antiviral medicine can help shorten the illness.

Is pain normal with shingles?

Yes, pain or itching in the affected area is common with shingles. Over-the-counter pain relievers and cool compresses may help. If pain is severe or does not improve, contact your healthcare provider.

When should I call the doctor after a telemedicine visit?

Call your doctor if your child develops a high fever, the rash worsens or shows signs of infection, if there is eye involvement, or if your child experiences severe pain or difficulty moving the affected area.

Sources

1. Shingles (Herpes Zoster) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Shingles — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Herpes Zoster (Shingles) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Herpes Zoster (Shingles) in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only. It is not a substitute for in-person medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. If your child has severe symptoms or emergency signs, seek immediate medical attention.