Iconic Singer Reveals Painful Diagnosis at 35: What to Know

The 35-year-old singer shared that he’s been recovering from shingles, a painful viral condition more commonly associated with older adults.

“I’ve had shingles for the last month—wouldn’t recommend it—but on the mend now,” Sheeran wrote in a recent Instagram post, alongside a photo showing his shorter haircut.

Why Shingles Is Showing Up in Younger Adults

Shingles is caused by the same virus responsible for chickenpox. After recovery, the virus stays dormant in the body and can reactivate later in life.

While it’s typically linked to adults over 50, health experts say that’s starting to shift.

“Although 50 is when immune function begins to decline, shingles can absolutely be triggered earlier,” said Samantha Picking, PharmD, Senior Director of Immunizations at Walgreens.

Stress, illness, or a weakened immune system can all increase the risk—even for people in their 30s.

NBA star Tyrese Haliburton, 26, just recovered from the painful condition.

The Warning Signs to Watch For

According to Mayo Clinic, shingles usually appears as a painful rash on one side of the body. Early symptoms can include:

• Tingling or burning pain
• Itchy or sensitive skin
• Clusters of fluid-filled blisters

Catching it early matters. Antiviral medications are most effective when taken within 72 hours of symptoms appearing.

Shingles, like chicken pox, is very contagious. If you have shingles, you can transmit the virus to others. If you're around young children who have not been vaccinated for the chicken pox, you can spread the virus to them.

Can You Prevent Shingles?

There’s no guaranteed way to prevent shingles entirely, but vaccination significantly reduces the risk.

The shingles vaccine was once recommended only for adults over 50. Now, it’s also available for younger adults (ages 19–49) with weakened immune systems. New research also indicates that the shingles vaccine offers protection against dementia.

What's Next for Sheeran

Despite the health setback, Sheeran appears to be recovering well and preparing to get back on stage.

He’s set to launch upcoming tour dates across the U.S. and Latin America, including stops in Philadelphia, Nashville, Puerto Rico, Colombia, Peru, and Costa Rica.