Shingles

Shingles is a viral infection caused by reactivation of the chickenpox virus (varicella-zoster virus). It typically causes a painful, burning rash that appears on one side of the body.

It can affect adults aged 18 and over and may cause significant discomfort, especially in the early stages.

What is Pharmacy First?

Pharmacy First is an NHS service that allows you to access treatment for common conditions directly from a community pharmacy without needing a GP appointment.

At our pharmacy, our trained pharmacists can assess your symptoms in a private consultation and provide treatment where appropriate, or refer you for further care if needed.

This service helps you receive faster treatment and reduces pressure on GP surgeries and urgent care services.

Who can use this service?

• Adults aged 18 years and over
• Patients with early symptoms of shingles (rash within recent onset)
• Those who do not require urgent hospital treatment

Common symptoms of shingles

• Burning, tingling, or shooting pain on one side of the body
• Red rash that develops into fluid-filled blisters
• Itching or sensitivity in the affected area
• Flu-like symptoms such as fatigue or mild fever
• Skin that is painful to touch

Why shingles needs early treatment

Early treatment is important because antiviral medication is most effective when started within the first few days of symptoms.

Prompt treatment can help reduce the severity of symptoms and lower the risk of complications such as long-term nerve pain (post-herpetic neuralgia).

How Pharmacy First treatment works

1. Visit us at the pharmacy (no appointment needed)
2. Speak to a trained pharmacist in a private consultation room
3. Your symptoms are assessed clinically
4. Antiviral treatment may be provided if appropriate
5. If needed, we will refer you to a GP or urgent care service

When to seek urgent medical help

• Rash affecting the face or eyes
• Severe or worsening pain
• Signs of infection or spreading rash
• Immunocompromised patients with symptoms
• No improvement after starting treatment

How shingles is managed

Treatment may include antiviral medication, pain relief, and supportive care to help manage symptoms.

Your pharmacist will assess whether treatment is appropriate based on NHS Pharmacy First guidelines.

Benefits of Pharmacy First

• No GP appointment required
• Fast access to NHS treatment
• Private consultation with our pharmacist
• Clinical assessment and early antiviral treatment where appropriate
• Convenient local service

Book online or visit us today

You can visit us at the pharmacy for a same-day assessment, or book an appointment online for a time that suits you.

Booking online helps reduce waiting time and ensures a pharmacist is ready to see you when you arrive.

If you are unsure, contact us and we can advise you before you travel.