Could this be shingles?

[Rhymingrooster]

Rash is on a 70 year old female who suffers from poor health generally. It’s on her back. She said it’s itchy and painful.

Should she try and get an appointment via 111?

Yes, that looks like shingles try 111 they might see her today get started on treatment.

It looks like it. My local pharmacist was able to diagnose and call my GP.

The anti vitals need to be started within 3 days. Might be too late.

Pharmacy Is a good idea if you don't want to phone 111.

She said she first noticed yesterday.

I don't know whether that looks like shingles or not, but to reiterate what a pp said, if it is the sooner anti-virals are started the better to reduce the risk of post-herpetic neuralgia - so I'd try and get it seen asap

What does she want to do about it has she said ?

She wants an out of ours appointment for them to look and see if she can get antivirals.

Then do that, least she's getting it looked at.

We can’t get one without going through 111. She’s been triaged by the call handler. They’ve said she should get a call back from a clinician within 2 hours so waiting for it now.

Possible. Is it on one side of her body only?

Sorry yes , I meant phoning 111 which you.now need to wait an absolute age but she will be seen or speak to someone today.

Yes looks like shingles to me

Thanks all. Walk in confirmed shingles and she now has antivirals and pain relief.

That's good news hope she's better soon.

Thank you!