May 28, 2026

The Pharmacy First Pilot Service for the Treatment of Shingles has been operating in 50 community pharmacies since 6th January 2025. The pilot service was commissioned following the publication of the Department of Health’s 2024/25 Winter Preparedness Plan. This service for shingles will facilitate the assessment and treatment of patients aged 18 years and over in the community pharmacy in line with NI antimicrobial and NICE guidelines. The DH commissioned MOIC to evaluate the service and this review is currently ongoing.