Pharmacy First - Shingles (Herpes Zoster)
A same-day check of a painful, blistering rash, with clear advice on what to do next.
- Get seen quickly when symptoms are uncomfortable
- Understand what may be causing your rash and pain
- Know what self-care can help at home
- Find out if treatment is suitable for you today
Timely help when symptoms start
If eligible, you can be assessed promptly so you are not left waiting while symptoms worsen.
Clear steps to protect others
Learn practical ways to reduce the risk of passing the virus on, especially around vulnerable people.
A plan you can follow
Leave with straightforward guidance on self-care, what to look out for, and what to do if things change.
The process
What this service involves
You will be asked about your symptoms, when they started, and how they are affecting you. The clinician may look at the affected skin area to help decide the most suitable next steps. You will leave with clear self-care advice and, if appropriate, treatment or onward referral guidance.
Discreet and respectful
Your concerns are handled sensitively, with the chance to talk things through without feeling rushed.
Simple questions, clear answers
Bring a brief timeline of symptoms and any medicines you take to help make the discussion straightforward.
This appointment
Free
About 15 minutes / Pharmacy First
A deposit is required at booking.
- Discreet and respectful: Your concerns are handled sensitively, with the chance to talk things through without feeling rushed.
- Simple questions, clear answers: Bring a brief timeline of symptoms and any medicines you take to help make the discussion straightforward.
Included
What we provide
These are the key things you can expect to receive during your visit.
Symptom and suitability check
A structured review of your symptoms and general health to decide what support is appropriate today.
Self-care and comfort advice
Practical tips to help manage discomfort, protect the skin, and support recovery at home.
Reducing spread guidance
Advice on covering the rash, hygiene, and contact precautions to help protect others.
Treatment or referral outcome
If eligible, you may be offered treatment, or advised on the most appropriate next step for your care.
Suitability
Who this service is for
This service is for people who think they may have shingles and want timely advice and next steps.
Adults with a new blistering rash
Especially if the rash is on one side of the body or face and feels painful, burning, or tingly.
People seeking prompt support
Most helpful when symptoms have started recently and you want to know what to do next.
Those worried about passing it on
Useful if you live with or care for people who may be more vulnerable to infection.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
It may be suitable if you have a new painful, tingling, or burning sensation followed by a blistering rash, often on one side of the body or face.
You will be asked about your symptoms and when they started, and the affected area may be looked at so you can be given clear next steps and advice.
If you can, bring a list of medicines you take and let the clinician know about any allergies or previous reactions to medicines.
If you meet the service criteria and treatment is suitable, you may be offered treatment the same day; if not, you will be advised on the best next step.
Yes, you will be seen in a private consultation room and your information will be handled confidentially.
You will leave with self-care advice and clear guidance on what to do if symptoms change or do not improve as expected.
Related
Other services you can book
Appointments available this week
Book Pharmacy First - Shingles (Herpes Zoster) at Safys Chemist
Book a pharmacist appointment at Melton Road for treatment, vaccines or travel health. Free where the NHS covers it, clear prices where it does not, and most patients are seen within a few days.
Next available slots
Monday to Saturday, morning and afternoon