Sen. Dianne Feinstein, a Democratic senator from California, faced more serious complications from shingles than previously known, according to a statement from her office. The New York Times reported that her shingles had spread to her face and neck, causing vision and balance impairments and facial paralysis known as Ramsay Hunt syndrome. Additionally, she experienced a case of encephalitis, which was previously unreported. Encephalitis is a rare but potentially debilitating complication that causes inflammation of the brain. The encephalitis resolved itself shortly after Feinstein’s release from the hospital in March, but she continues to have complications from Ramsay Hunt syndrome.
Feinstein’s health issues are quite rare. While shingles affects about a third of Americans, Ramsay Hunt syndrome and encephalitis are far less common and can be severe. The risk for post-shingles encephalitis is approximately one in a thousand. Encephalitis symptoms include fever, headache, sensitivity to light or sound, neck stiffness, and even seizures and loss of consciousness.
Feinstein’s absence from the Senate lasted for months as she recovered from shingles, which was diagnosed in February. Her extended leave raised concerns among Democrats about missed votes and prompted calls for her resignation. Her absence also impacte the judiciary committee’s ability to issue subpoenas investigating reports of Supreme Court corruption. Despite these concerns, Feinstein returned to work after being cleared by her doctors. However, she appeared frail and disoriented, using a wheelchair and exhibiting symptoms such as a frozen face and an almost shut eye.
Calls for Feinstein’s resignation persisted, but she remains committed to her work in the Senate. She has stated that she is back in Washington, voting, and attending committee meetings while recovering from complications related to her shingles diagnosis. In 2024, Feinstein will not seek reelection, and three prominent Democratic representatives are vying to replace her: Barbara Lee, Katie Porter, and Adam Schiff.
