I had shingles 3-4 years ago, in my mid-30s. Started as a crazy tingle on my abdomen, then an insane itch...I had a cluster of blisters, but none actually ruptured. I self-diagnosed myself once the little pink spots started and got into the med-center. Doc confirmed my diagnosis and got me on Valtrex (herpes med) immediately. I think that greatly shortened and lessened the severity of my outbreak.

My brother had a similar outbreak that he never had diagnosed. Fortunately our immune systems seem to have been strong enough to avoid serious outbreak. A friend of mine had shingles on her face and has permanent scarring. It's scary, since it can lead to blindness if it develops in a person's eye.

My MIL's boyfriend had it during a skiing trip and spent a few days in the hospital.

Definitely something to vaccinate against, if possible. I like to think that maybe I am at less risk of a future outbreak, since I've already had it once.