NHS Pharmacy First – Shingles Treatment at Neils Pharmacy

Shingles (Herpes Zoster) – Pharmacy First Service

Shingles (herpes zoster) is a painful viral infection caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus (varicella-zoster).

😖 It usually presents as a painful rash on one side of the body or face and is often preceded by tingling, burning, or sharp pain.

🏥 Under the NHS Pharmacy First service, eligible patients can receive expert assessment and treatment directly from a pharmacist, without needing to see a GP.

Who Can Use This Service?

You may be eligible for treatment at Neils Pharmacy if:

• ✅ You are 18 years of age or over
• ✅ You have symptoms consistent with shingles
• ✅ The rash appeared within the last 72 hours
• ✅ The rash is not affecting the eyes, face, or genitals
• ✅ You are not immunocompromised
• ✅ You are not pregnant or breastfeeding

🩺 Our pharmacist will carry out a private consultation to confirm whether this service is appropriate.

Common Symptoms of Shingles

Symptoms of shingles may include:

• 🔥 Tingling, itching, or burning pain in one area
• 🟥 A red rash that develops into fluid-filled blisters
• ➡️ Rash affecting one side of the body or face only
• 😣 Pain that may be severe, even before the rash appears
• 🤕 Fatigue, headache, or mild fever

⏱️ Early treatment is important, as antiviral medicines are most effective when started within 72 hours of the rash appearing.

How We Can Help

If you are eligible, our pharmacist may:

• 🩺 Carry out a clinical assessment
• 💊 Supply antiviral medication where clinically appropriate
• 💡 Provide advice on pain relief and symptom management
• 🚫 Give guidance on reducing the risk of spreading infection
• 📤 Refer you to a GP or urgent care service if required

🔒 All consultations are confidential and take place in a private consultation room.

When You Should NOT Use This Service

You should seek urgent medical advice or contact your GP if:

• ❌ The rash is near your eyes, nose, or ears
• ❌ You have severe pain or rapidly worsening symptoms
• ❌ You are immunocompromised
• ❌ You are pregnant
• ❌ The rash has been present for more than 72 hours
• ❌ You feel generally very unwell

If required, our pharmacist will ensure you are safely referred to the appropriate healthcare service.

Do I Need an Appointment?

• 📱 Appointments are recommended, though walk-ins may be available
• ⏱️ Consultations are quick and convenient
• 💷 This service is FREE on the NHS for eligible patients

👉 Book a shingles consultation

Why Choose Neils Pharmacy?

• ✔️ NHS-approved Pharmacy First provider
• ✔️ No GP appointment required
• ✔️ Expert pharmacist-led assessment
• ✔️ Fast access to treatment and advice
• ✔️ Trusted local pharmacy in Prescot

We work closely with the NHS to deliver safe, effective care in your community.

Book a Shingles Consultation Today

If you think you may have shingles, do not delay. Early assessment and treatment can help reduce pain and the risk of complications.

You can book online or visit Neils Pharmacy for advice.

For more information about shingles, visit the NHS website:
👉 Shingles – NHS

Other NHS Pharmacy First Services Available

Neils Pharmacy also offers assessment and treatment for other conditions under the NHS Pharmacy First service:

• 🩺 Insect bites and stings
• 🩺 Sinusitis
• 🩺 Sore throat
• 🩺 Ear infection (acute otitis media)
• 🩺 Impetigo
• 🩺 Uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI)