I had them a few years ago across the top of my head and down my neck. The most painful thing I ever experienced. I got the vaccine after the fact and it had no side effects. I didn’t realize that the same virus that causes chickenpox, Bells Palsy, shingles and a few other illnesses are all related. Unfortunately for me, I had them all. Including one that causes hearing loss. I just don’t remember what it is called.
Might be Herpes Zoster Oticus (what my doctor called it); related form of Shingles virus...I had a bad case on left side of my head, neck and scalp that left me deaf on the left side...Damaged the auditory nerve, I’m told, so hearing aids are no help...
That was at 52, and I was treated with Famcyclovir, although I’m told there are other more effective anti-viral drugs available now, as well as the vaccination...
Outbreak lasted about 18 months and I still get occasional small outbreaks in the affected area 15 years later...Don’t wish it on anyone...