Shingles
A painful rash caused by the chickenpox virus waking up. For adults aged 18 and over — come as soon as the rash appears.
Shingles is caused by the same virus as chickenpox, which stays in the body and can reactivate years later. It usually starts with tingling or pain in one area of skin, followed a few days later by a rash of blisters on one side of the body. It can be very painful.
Under Pharmacy First we can see adults aged 18 and over. The pharmacist will look at the rash and, if it is suitable, supply antiviral tablets. Timing matters: antivirals work best when started within 72 hours of the rash appearing, so please come in as soon as you notice it rather than waiting to see how it develops.
Two things to know
- The consultation is free on the NHS. If the pharmacist supplies a treatment, you pay the standard NHS prescription charge for it, unless you are exempt from prescription charges.
- If this service is not suitable for you — because of your age, your symptoms, or something in your medical history — the pharmacist will not send you away empty-handed. We will signpost you to the right care provider, whether that is your GP practice, NHS 111 or urgent care.
Who this service is for
- Aged 18 or over.
- A shingles rash that appeared within the last few days. If it has been longer than a week, the pharmacist will advise whether treatment can still help or refer you on.
- Shingles affecting the eye, the side of the nose, or the ear needs urgent medical assessment rather than Pharmacy First.
- If you are pregnant, or your immune system is weakened by a condition or medication, you will be referred to your GP or urgent care.
Looking after yourself
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain, if they are suitable for you. The pharmacist can advise if the pain is severe.
- Keep the rash clean and dry, and loosely covered.
- Shingles cannot be passed on, but the virus can give chickenpox to someone who has never had it. Avoid contact with pregnant women, newborn babies and anyone with a weakened immune system until the blisters have dried.
Get help straight away if
- The rash is on your face, especially around an eye or the tip of your nose, or you have any change in your vision.
- The rash is in or around an ear, or one side of your face feels weak.
- You feel very unwell, confused or drowsy, or the rash is spreading across both sides of the body.
If you are 65 or over, or 50 and over with a weakened immune system, you may be eligible for the NHS shingles vaccine. We also offer a private shingles vaccination for adults who are not.