From Chickenpox to Shingles: The Hidden Risks of the Varicella-Zoster Virus

 Many of us think of chickenpox as a childhood illness — a harmless rite of passage that fades into memory once the itchy blisters heal. However, what most people don't realize is that the virus behind chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), never really leaves the body. Instead, it lies dormant in the nervous system for years, only to reawaken later in life as a painful and potentially debilitating condition known as shingles.1

Shingles, or "kulebra" as it’s locally known, is a viral infection that can cause severe discomfort. It’s the same virus that caused your chickenpox but reawakens when your immune system is weakened.2

In a radio interview, Family Medicine and Geriatrics Expert Dr.Cheridine Oro-Josef, likened the pain of shingles to "a dormant volcano suddenly coming to life."3 She emphasized that the most challenging symptom isn’t the rash itself, but rather the nerve pain known as postherpetic neuralgia4 or long-term nerve pain. Her patients often described this pain as "barbed wires" piercing the-skin, which can linger for months or even years after the rash has healed.

 

"When it develops there, it can be extremely painful because itaffects the nerves. Our sensations come from our nerves, so ifthey are inflamed or affected, the pain can be really intense,” Dr.Oro-Josef said.

 

Shingles primarily affects older adults, particularly those over 50,2 as well as individuals with weakened immune systems due to conditions such as asthma, coronary heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, depression, or rheumatoid arthritis.5 In fact, about 24 percent of adults aged 50 to 59—around 2 million Filipinos—are at risk of developing shingles.6

 

Spotting the signs

Shingles often starts with signs that are easy to miss. You might feel itching, tingling, or a burning sensation on one side of your body.4 This early feeling can seem like a minor skin irritation but is actually a warning of more noticeable symptoms to come.

 

As shingles progresses, a painful rash usually appears. It begins with a few red spots or small blisters that quickly turn into clusters of fluid-filled blisters, which then crust over. In addition to the rash, shingles can cause sharp, shooting pain that can last for more than 10 days.4 You might also experience fever, headaches, sensitivity to light, and fatigue.2

 

Dr. Oro-Josef noted that since the VZV can spread through direct contact with fluid from shingles blisters or through airborne particles if the blisters burst, individuals with shingles should isolate themselves. This helps prevent spreading the virus, especially to those who haven’t had chickenpox or been vaccinated.3

 

Jollibee Mix & Match is Back: Choose, Enjoy, and Savor Sulit-Sarap Joy!

Let’s face it – finding great value meals that taste amazing isn’t always easy. Thankfully, the Jollibee Mix & Match Combos are back with a sure-fire way to satisfy your cravings without making a dent in your wallet! You can customize your meal with sulit-sarap choices starting at only P78. Delicious, budget-friendly, and filled with all the saya of enjoying your favorites!

 

Creating your Mix & Match meal comes in two easy steps.

 

Step 1: Choose your main.

Kick things off with one of these all-time favorites:

Combo A (P78) - Jolly Spaghetti, 1-pc. Burger Steak, or Yumburger

Combo B (P88) - Jolly Hotdog, Cheesy Yumburger, Crunchy Chicken Sandwich, or 4-pc. Chicken Nuggets with Dip

Step 2: Choose your side.

Complete your meal with one of these well-loved options:

Coke Float, Peach Mango Pie, Jolly Crispy Fries, Pineapple Juice, Choco Sundae, or Iced Latte

Even with limited budget, you can still enjoy your favorite dishes through the Jollibee Mix & Match Combos. Love Jolly Spaghetti but also need Choco Sundae? Done. Craving Crunchy Chicken Sandwich but can’t resist a Peach Mango Pie? You got it.

 

And don’t forget the newest star of the menu—the on-the-go offering, Jollibee Chicken Nuggets! Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and can be enjoyed with dips like BBQ ketchup, ranch, or sriracha mayo.

“We’re happy to start the new year by delivering on the promise of Saya ng Maraming Sulit-Sarap Combos with the return of the Mix & Match! This gives customers the freedom to enjoy more delicious choices at an unbeatable value,” said Luis Berba, Marketing Director of Masterbrand and Chickenjoy. “Whether you’re pairing  Burger Steak with  Coke Float, or savoring Jolly Hotdog with Jolly Crispy Fries, you can truly celebrate the joy of variety and sulit-sarap that only Jollibee can offer.”

Time to mix, match, and munch! Head to your nearest Jollibee and try out its Mix & Match combos, starting at only P78 via dine-in, take-out, or drive-thru.

For all the latest updates, like Jollibee on Facebook, subscribe to Jollibee Philippines on YouTube, and follow @jollibee on X, Instagram, and TikTok. 

Exploring Beyond the Usual: Japan and South Korea Top Travel Picks for 2025 Adventure-Seekers"

 Planning your next travel adventure? Japan and South Korea remain popular destinations, celebrated for their rich cultural heritage, culinary delights, and scenic beauty. Agoda noted that they are some of the countries most visited by Filipinos.  Interestingly, 2025 marks a year of exploration, with an Agoda survey revealing that 84% of travelers are eager to discover new destinations. This trend adds to the allure of exploring lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path locations within Japan and South Korea, offering fresh experiences in these beloved destinations, especially if you’ve been here a couple of times.

For those seeking unique experiences away from the usual crowds, these spots in Japan and South Korea offer the perfect opportunity to explore something fresh and extraordinary. Both countries offer a blend of traditional and modern experiences that resonate deeply with Filipino travelers, who appreciate the accessibility, vibrant cities, and family-friendly attractions. For 2025, consider adding these hidden gems to your travel list for a unique and unforgettable experience.

Japan

1. Tottori Sand Dunes, Tottori Prefecture

Source: Japan Guide

Nestled along the Sea of Japan and just outside the Tottori city center, the Tottori Sand Dunes offer a slice of desert-like beauty. Spanning 16 kilometers, these dunes are perfect for sandboarding, camel rides, or simply admiring the striking landscape. Formed over thousands of years by sand from the Sendaigawa River carried to the coast by ocean currents, they are a geological wonder. Nearby, visit the Sand Museum to marvel at intricate sand sculptures crafted by international artists.

2. Shirakami Sanchi, Aomori and Akita Prefectures

Source: Experience Shirakami

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shirakami Sanchi is a pristine forest with ancient beech trees, waterfalls, and serene hiking trails. The estimated 8,000-year-old forest is also said to be the inspiration for Studio Ghibli’s Princess Mononoke (1997). For a peaceful retreat, explore the Anmon Falls or trek to the peak of Mount Shirakami for breathtaking views.

South Korea

3. Hahoe Folk Village, Andong

Source: Asia Society

Step back in time at Hahoe Folk Village, a UNESCO-listed site preserving Korea’s traditional hanok houses. Located in Andong, this living museum offers a glimpse into the Joseon Dynasty’s culture. Don't miss the mask dance performances and savor authentic Andong jjimdak, a flavorful braised chicken dish.

4. Oedo Botania, Geoje Island

Source: Visit Korea

This hidden paradise is a marine botanical garden on Geoje Island. Featuring European-style terraces, lush gardens, and panoramic sea views, Oedo Botania feels like a dream. Accessible by ferry, it’s a serene escape perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

5. Damyang Bamboo Forest, Damyang

Source: Visit Korea

Escape to the lush greenery of Damyang Bamboo Forest, also known as Juknokwon. This tranquil retreat offers winding paths surrounded by towering bamboo, providing a peaceful atmosphere for leisurely walks. The area is also famous for its bamboo-inspired dishes, such as bamboo rice and bamboo ice cream, which are must-tries for any foodie.

How to travel safely and in style

The allure of hidden destinations lies in their ability to offer something different—a break from the usual tourist crowds and a chance to immerse yourself in untouched beauty and local culture. Exploring such places often feels like uncovering a secret, making every moment more personal and memorable. Imagine the thrill of standing atop the Tottori Sand Dunes, feeling the expanse of a desert-like wonder, or wandering through the tranquil paths of Namiseom Island, surrounded by the fiery colors of autumn.

Timing is everything when visiting these hidden gems. Traveling during off-peak seasons allows you to experience the destinations at their most serene, whether it’s walking along Shirakami Sanchi’s pristine trails or exploring Oedo Botania’s lush gardens without the rush of crowds. This also ensures that you have ample time to soak in the atmosphere and truly connect with your surroundings.

Reaching these spots is often an adventure in itself. From scenic ferry rides to winding bus routes, the journey becomes part of the experience. Researching transportation options ahead of time ensures a smoother trip, while regional travel passes can help you save both time and money.

To make the most of these destinations, dive into the local way of life. Engage with locals, learn their stories, and savor regional delicacies like Andong jjimdak or unique dishes from Tottori Prefecture. Even a simple exchange of pleasantries in Japanese or Korean can open doors to warm conversations and lasting memories.

As you plan your trip, remember that hidden destinations often come with their own set of challenges, such as remote locations or limited facilities. This is where comprehensive travel insurance becomes essential. Developed in collaboration with GCash and Malayan Insurance, Travel Master ensures you’re covered for personal accidents, flight delays, lost luggage, medical emergencies, and even COVID-19 protection. Securing this coverage is effortless—simply head to the GInsure page in your GCash app, choose Travel Master, and fill in your travel details. Within moments, you’ll have a policy that keeps you protected no matter where your journey takes you.

Exploring hidden destinations isn’t just about seeing new places; it’s about forging unique memories and experiencing the world in a way that feels personal and extraordinary. Whether you’re chasing nature’s marvels, immersing yourself in cultural heritage, or seeking peaceful retreats, the hidden gems of Japan and South Korea await. Start planning now and let the road less traveled lead you to unforgettable memories.

A Valentine's Romance: Choi Woo-shik and Park Bo-young Star in a Heartfelt Netflix Series, Premiering February 14

 Melo Movie is coming February 14, only on Netflix

Watch the teaser trailer HERE

“Courtesy of Netflix”

Melo Movie is about finding love and pursuing dreams, all while healing from past traumas. It’s also a blend of laughter and heartwarming moments, capturing the essence of youth in a way that’s both relatable and inspiring.