Shingles (12 yrs and over)

At Jaysons Pharmacy, Pharmacy First consultations are provided by experienced NHS  pharmacists with extensive clinical experience in assessing and treating common conditions.  Our team is committed to delivering safe, evidence-based care in a professional and friendly  environment. Related NHS Pharmacy First Services

Pharmacy First Shingles Assessment – Adults (18 years and over)

Have you developed a painful rash with blisters on one side of your body? Our NHS Pharmacy First Shingles Service provides assessment and treatment for eligible adults aged 18 years and over, without needing a GP appointment.

Shingles (herpes zoster) is caused by reactivation of the chickenpox (varicella-zoster) virus. It commonly affects the chest, abdomen or face and is often preceded by pain, tingling or burning before the rash appears.

Early assessment is important because antiviral treatment is most effective when started within 72 hours of the rash developing.

Common symptoms of shingles include:

• Pain, burning or tingling before the rash appears

• A red rash affecting one side of the body or face

• Groups of fluid-filled blisters

• Painful skin

• Itching

• Sensitivity to touch

• Headache

• Fever

• Feeling generally unwell

• Tiredness

The rash usually forms blisters which dry out and crust over within 7 to 10 days. Most people recover within 2 to 4 weeks, although pain can sometimes persist after the rash has healed.

Who can use this service?

• Adults aged 18 years and over

• Face-to-face consultation only

• Available through the NHS Pharmacy First Service

• Symptoms usually started within the previous 72 hours

Our experienced pharmacists can assess your symptoms, advise on the most appropriate treatment, supply NHS antiviral medicines where appropriate, or refer you to your GP or hospital if further assessment is needed.

You may also be eligible for assessment and treatment for other common conditions through  the NHS Pharmacy First Service: 

• Acute Sore Throat (5 years and over)  

• Ear Infection (1–17 years)  

• Sinusitis (12 years and over)  

• Impetigo (1 year and over)  

• Infected Insect Bites (1 year and over)  

• Shingles (18 years and over)  

• Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections (Women aged 16–64 years)  

Book Your Pharmacy First Consultation  Today 

If you have symptoms of one of the eligible conditions, our experienced pharmacists  are here to help. 

Book online, visit Jaysons Pharmacy in Wollaton, or speak to a member of our  team today. 

In addition to NHS services, we also offer: 

• Weight Management Clinic  

• Ear Wax Removal (Microsuction)  

• Travel Health & Vaccinations  

• Hearing Aids  

• Blood Testing  

o Food Intolerance 

o Allergy Check 

o Essential Health Check 

• Map My Mole Skin Checks  

• Independent Prescribing Clinics  

• Asthma Optimisation Service (Coming Soon) 

Nominate Jaysons Pharmacy for your Prescriptions 

We also provide: 

• Repeat Prescription Service  

• Electronic Prescription Service (EPS)  

• Blood Pressure Checks  

• NHS Contraception Service  

• NHS Flu Vaccinations  

• COVID Vaccinations 

• Meningitis B 

• Smoking Cessation  

• New Medicine Service (NMS) 

Nominate Jaysons Pharmacy for your Prescriptions

Can a pharmacist treat shingles?

Yes. Under the NHS Pharmacy First Service, our pharmacists can assess eligible adults with suspected shingles, provide advice, supply antiviral treatment where appropriate, or refer you if further assessment is required.

What are the first signs of shingles?

Many people notice pain, burning, tingling or itching on one side of the body before a blistering rash appears. The rash usually develops a few days later.

When should treatment start?

Antiviral medicines work best when started within 72 hours of the rash appearing, so it is important to seek assessment as soon as possible.

Is shingles contagious?

You cannot catch shingles from someone else. However, the virus can cause chickenpox in someone who has never had chickenpox or has not been vaccinated. Until the blisters have crusted over, avoid close contact with pregnant women who are not immune, newborn babies and people with weakened immune systems.

When should I seek urgent medical advice?

Seek urgent medical attention if the rash affects your eye or face, you develop vision changes, severe headache, confusion, widespread rash, or if you have a weakened immune system or become seriously unwell.