Background: Despite the significant public health implications of shingles (Herpes Zoster), there is a paucity of research examining the awareness levels among primary healthcare physicians, particularly in specific regions such as Al-Qassim Province. Understanding the awareness gaps is crucial for designing targeted interventions that enhance early detection, prevention, and management of shingles.

Methods: A descriptive, correlational cross-sectional design was employed for this study. The study was conducted at primary health care centers in Al-Qassim Province. Participants were be selected during the period from January to March 2023. Population of the current study were primary healthcare physicians in Al-Qassim Province, KSA. Study participants were selected by non-probability convenient sampling technique. Study instrument consists of two domains. First is sociodemographic characteristics of participants. Second is KAP assessment regarding shingles.

Results: The study included 252 participants. The mean age among study participants was 34.58 + 8.53 years with median age of 31 years. More than half of study participants were males (n= 154, 61.1%) and half of study participants were general practitioners (n= 127, 50.4%). Majority of study participants were Family Medicine practitioners (n= 228, 90.5%). More than half of study participants were Saudi (n= 150, 59.5%). In addition, more than half of study participants had 1-5 years of experience (n= 131, 52%). Notably, 60 participants acknowledge the common occurrence of Shingles while 166 recognize the possibility of multiple occurrences. A significant proportion, 188 participants, are aware of Shingles' transmissibility, and 240 participants understand that older individuals and those with comorbid conditions face a higher risk. Additionally, 231 participants acknowledge the serious impact of Shingles on daily life, with 185 considering the potential need for hospital admission. Most of study participants believed that rash (n= 130, 51.6%) and post-herpatic neuralgia (n= 116, 46%) are the most common complications of shingles. Moreover, more than half of study participants reported that pain associated with shingles is moderate and has a duration of few weeks (n= 144, 57.1%). Furthermore, more than half of study participants said that polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test is the diagnostic tool for herpes zoster (n= 132, 52.4%). Noteworthy results include a significant association between age and awareness, with the younger age group (25-35) showing higher awareness compared to older age groups (36-45 and 46-60). Proficiency level also demonstrates a substantial impact, as specialists and consultants exhibit higher awareness compared to general practitioners and residents. Nationality is another significant factor, with Saudis having higher awareness than non-Saudis. Experience plays a role, with those having more than 10 years of experience demonstrating greater awareness.

Conclusion: Awareness increased with younger age, competency, Saudi nationality, and professional experience. Shingles' frequency, transmissibility, and impact on susceptible populations were well-known, demonstrating sophisticated views about the illness. These findings show that demographically appropriate education will enhance public health and patient care in the region.