California Senator Dianne Feinstein has been hospitalized with shingles in San Francisco, according to multiple news sources. The 87-year-old senator was admitted to the hospital after experiencing symptoms of the viral infection, which causes a painful rash and can affect the nerves.
Feinstein’s office released a statement saying that the senator is “under medical care and is being treated for the symptoms of shingles.” The statement also said that Feinstein is “in good spirits and is progressing well.”
Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, and it can occur later in life as the virus reactivates. The condition can be very painful, and it can also cause other complications.
Feinstein’s hospitalization comes as Congress is set to begin a new session and the Democrats are preparing to take control of the Senate. Feinstein, who has been a senator since 1992, has been a key figure in the Democratic party and has held several leadership positions in the Senate.
The news of Feinstein’s hospitalization has prompted an outpouring of support from her colleagues and others. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer tweeted that he sent his “best wishes for a speedy recovery.” House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who represents San Francisco, said in a statement that she is “thinking of Senator Feinstein and wishing her a speedy and full recovery.”