Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful skin rash caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus can stay dormant in their body and reactivate years later as shingles.
Shingles typically present as a painful, itchy rash that can develop into blisters. Other symptoms may include fever, headache, chills and sensitivity to light. Shingles can sometimes lead to complications, such as blindness, facial drooping, long-term nerve pain, neurological problems, hearing problems and altered balance.
The risk of developing shingles increases with age, particularly for those over 50. People with weakened immune systems are also at higher risk.
The best way to prevent shingles is through vaccination. The shingles vaccine is recommended for adults aged 50 and older, as well as those aged 18 and older with weakened immune systems. The vaccine is given in 2 doses, with the second dose administered 2 to 6 months after the first.
If you develop shingles, antiviral medications can help reduce the severity and duration of the illness. Antiviral medicines are best used within 3 days of the rash appearing and in some states and territories, pharmacies are able to prescribe these medicines directly to eligible patients. Pain can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers or prescription medications. Your community pharmacist can provide advice and treatments to help you manage shingles.
Try not to scratch the rash, as this can cause infection or scarring. You can reduce the discomfort from your rash by wearing loose-fitting clothing and using a cooled towel on the affected area.
If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of shingles, reach out to your local community pharmacy for advice on the next steps.
Participating community pharmacies can provide the shingles vaccine.
Your community pharmacist can help you treat school sores, acne, dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis.
Your pharmacist is here to help with skin health checks, guidance and advice for early skin cancer detection.
Your local community pharmacy is your go-to destination for everyday health needs. From coughs and colds to travel health and mobility care, your community pharmacists can do more for you with expert advice and effective treatments to help you stay healthy and active. Explore our range of services to keep your family well every day.
Your community pharmacist can do more for you with a wide range of vaccines available, from flu and COVID-19 to essential travel immunizations. Visit your local pharmacy to stay healthy, protected, and up-to-date with your vaccinations.
Your community pharmacist is here to help you care for your skin, from managing common conditions like school sores, eczema, and acne to offering guidance on wound care, shingles, and sun protection. Visit your local community pharmacy for expert advice and effective solutions to keep your skin healthy every day.
Community pharmacists are enhancing women’s health by providing comprehensive support at every stage – from conception and contraception to bone health and beyond.
Your community pharmacist is here to help with harm reduction and dependency, offering support and resources including needle and syringe services, opioid dependency treatment, quit smoking services, and naloxone.
Get expert support with your medications through comprehensive reviews and management services provided by your community pharmacist. From home medicine reviews and MedsCheck consultations to dose administration aids and staged supply, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Get the support you need from your community pharmacist to manage chronic conditions. With expert advice, personalised medication management and tailored health services, community pharmacies empower you to take control of ongoing health challenges and improve your quality of life.
Take control of your health with convenient testing and screening services at your community pharmacy. From regular monitoring to early detection, these essential services help identify potential health risks and support proactive care. Your pharmacist is here to guide you in staying informed and making health-conscious decisions for a healthier future.
Stay informed with the latest news, health tips, and updates from community pharmacies.
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