I also suffer with reoccurring shingles. It figures I would fall into the rare community who does but I have learned a few things. My first outbreak occurred at age 40. I have had it about 12 times in 2 years. Mine are triggered by stress and lack of sleep. As a single mother of 3 children on the spectrum, you can imagine why I have so many recurrent episodes. I immediately take my valcyclovir as soon as I feel the whole body skin pain and feel the flu-like symptoms. It is the warning signs my body gives to alert me. The relentless migraine and extreme fatigue are two of the worst symptoms for me. Its also difficult having to explain my body’s need for rest to others who don’t understand my need to cancel appointments or events during a recurrence. I would recommend either the daily maintenance dose to avoid recurrence or have the meds on hand when you need. It is almost impossible to avoid stress and rest even during a recurrence but my body doesnt care and makes me rest in bed (hence the migraine and severe fatigue). I not sure why your doc wont offer a maintenance prescription since that should be a decision made with your input. Maybe discuss it again with them? If they still refuse and it is something you prefer then my advice is to find one who will honor your requests. Its hard to live with reoccurring shingles but you are not alone in this community! You will learn to manage it better each time.