Feinstein confirms hospitalized with shingles, expects to be back 'later this month'

California Sen. Dianne Feinstein has been hospitalized with shingles, making her the second Senate Democrat now unable to vote because of being in a hospital.

The 89-year-old senator confirmed her hospitalization Thursday amid questions about her absence from Washington. 

“I was diagnosed over the February [Senate] recess with a case of shingles," she said. "I have been hospitalized and am receiving treatment in San Francisco and expect to make a full recovery. I hope to return to the Senate later this month."

Shingles is caused by the same virus, varicella-zoster virus, that causes chickenpox and is often results in a painful rash ton the face and body, according to NBC News. 

Late last month, Pennsylvania Democrat Sen. John Fetterman voluntarily entered a hospital to help him with depression, which worsened after a near-death stroke in August 2022 that resulted in health problems. 

Feinstein is the oldest serving member of the Senate and is not seeking 2024 reelection, amid questions and concerns about her whether she has the health and stamina for the demanding job.