Shingles
NHS Pharmacy First Shingles Service at
Whittington Pharmacy | Lichfield & Staffordshire
Same day antibiotics for urinary tract infections (UTI) for non-pregnant women aged 16-64 at Whittington Pharmacy, Lichfield. Walk-in, book, or request a remote consultation.
How to Access the Pharmacy First Shingles Service
What is Shingles?
Shingles (also known as herpes zoster) is a painful skin condition caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus (varicella zoster). After someone has had chickenpox, the virus stays dormant in the body and can reactivate later in life, causing shingles.
It usually affects one side of the body or face, appearing as a band or patch of painful rash and blisters. Shingles can be very uncomfortable and, if untreated, may sometimes lead to complications such as long-lasting nerve pain (post-herpetic neuralgia).
What are the symptoms of Shingles?
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Localised rash on one side of the body or face
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Clusters of fluid-filled blisters
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Burning, tingling, or sharp pain in the affected area
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Sensitivity to touch or itching
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Fever, headache, or generally feeling unwell
Which Treatments are available for Shingles at Whittington Pharmacy
As part of the NHS Pharmacy First service, patients aged 18 years and over with suspected shingles can be assessed by our pharmacist at Whittington Pharmacy.
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Free consultation – in person at our Lichfield pharmacy or via a secure remote consultation.
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Our pharmacist will assess your symptoms and medical history before deciding on the most appropriate treatment.
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If shingles is confirmed and you meet the NHS criteria, we can supply prescription-only antiviral medication (such as aciclovir) on the NHS without you needing to see your GP.
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If treatment isn’t suitable, we will provide advice and refer you to your GP or NHS urgent care if needed.
You’ll only pay the standard NHS prescription charge (£9.90) if you normally pay for prescriptions. If you are exempt, your treatment is provided free of charge.
Important: Seek urgent medical help if shingles affects your eye, spreads rapidly, or if you feel very unwell.
3 Simple Steps to Get Free NHS Shingles Treatment in Lichfield
Attend your appointment in Lichfield or via remote consultation
Our pharmacist can assess your symptoms and provide same-day NHS treatment if suitable.
Step 1: Book Your Consultation
Walk-in, book online, or request a secure remote consultation. at Whittington Pharmacy Lichfield.
Step 2: Assessment & Health Review
Our pharmacist will review your rash, symptoms, and medical history to confirm whether shingles treatment is suitable.
Step 3: Treatment or Referral
If appropriate, we can supply NHS antiviral medication on the same day. If not, you will be referred to your GP or NHS urgent care.
Pharmacy First Shingles FAQs
Q: Do I need an appointment?
No – you can walk in during opening hours. However, booking online can save waiting time.
Q: Is the consultation free?
The consultation is free. If treatment is supplied, you’ll only pay the NHS prescription charge unless you are exempt.
Q: Will I always get antiviral medication?
Antivirals are only supplied if you meet the NHS criteria. Sometimes supportive treatment and advice may be more appropriate.
Q: When should I seek urgent help?
Seek urgent medical help if shingles affects your eye, spreads rapidly, or if you feel very unwell.
Q: What age group can use this service?
This service is available for adults 18 years and over with suspected shingles.