Shingles 

What is Shingles

Shingles is an infection that causes a painful rash. Get advice from a pharmacist or NHS 111 as soon as possible if you think you have it.

Who can use this service

• Anyone aged 18 years and over who thinks they might have shingles.

Who cannot use this service

• Pregnant people or those breastfeeding with sores on their breasts should contact their GP practice.

Symptoms of Shingles

• a tingling or painful feeling in an area of skin
• a headache or feeling generally unwell

A rash will usually appear a few days later. In rare cases it can cause pain without a rash.

Usually you get a rash on your chest and tummy, but it can appear anywhere on your body including on your face, eyes and genitals.

The rash appears as blotches on your skin, on 1 side of your body only. A rash on both the left and right of your body is unlikely to be shingles.