🩺 NHS Pharmacy First – Shingles Assessment & Treatment

🔥 Shingles (Herpes Zoster) – Pharmacy First Service

Shingles is a viral infection caused by reactivation of the chickenpox virus (varicella‑zoster), which remains dormant in the body after a previous infection.

⚡ It commonly presents as a painful, blistering rash on one side of the body, often preceded by tingling, burning, or sensitivity.

🏥 Through the NHS Pharmacy First service, eligible patients can access convenient assessment and treatment directly from a pharmacist, without needing to wait for a GP appointment.

👥 Who Is Eligible for Treatment?

You may be suitable for assessment and treatment if:

✅ You are aged 18 or over

✅ Your symptoms are consistent with shingles

✅ The rash developed within the last 72 hours

✅ The rash does not involve the eyes, face, or genital area

✅ You are not immunocompromised

✅ You are not pregnant or breastfeeding

🩺 A private consultation will determine whether treatment can be safely provided under this service.

🔍 Recognising the Symptoms

Shingles symptoms can vary but typically include:

🔥 Burning, tingling, or sharp pain in a localised area

🟥 A rash that develops into fluid‑filled blisters

➡️ Symptoms affecting one side of the body only

😣 Pain that may begin before the rash appears

🤕 Fatigue or mild fever

⏱️ Treatment is most effective when started early — ideally within 72 hours of the rash appearing.

💊 How Prescriptions Pharmacy Can Help

If appropriate, the pharmacist may:

🩺 Carry out a structured clinical assessment

💊 Supply antiviral treatment where clinically appropriate

💡 Provide advice on managing pain and symptoms

🚫 Offer guidance on reducing transmission risk

📤 Refer you to another healthcare service if needed

🔒 All consultations take place in a private consultation room.

⚠️ When to Seek Urgent Medical Care

This service may not be suitable if:

❌ The rash affects your eyes, nose, ears, or face

❌ The rash involves the genital area

❌ You have severe or worsening pain

❌ You are immunocompromised

❌ You are pregnant

❌ Symptoms have been present for more than 72 hours

❌ You feel significantly unwell

If needed, the pharmacist will ensure you are referred appropriately.

📅 Appointments & Cost

📱 Appointments recommended (walk‑ins may be available)

⏱️ Quick and convenient consultations

💙 Provided free of charge on the NHS for eligible patients

🌟 Why Choose Prescriptions Pharmacy?

✔️ NHS Pharmacy First provider

✔️ Direct access without GP delay

✔️ Clinically led pharmacist assessment

✔️ Efficient and patient‑focused care

✔️ Accessible local healthcare support

We provide safe, structured care aligned with NHS clinical pathways.

📘 Learn More About Shingles

👉 Shingles – NHS

🔗 Other Pharmacy First Services

Prescriptions Pharmacy also provides assessment and treatment for:

🩺 Insect bites and stings

🩺 Sore throat

🩺 Ear infection (acute otitis media)

🩺 Impetigo

🩺 Sinusitis

🩺 Urinary tract infection (UTI)