Skin infection assessment in Muirend,
free on the NHS.
Our prescribing pharmacist at Muirend Pharmacy can assess impetigo and mild to moderate skin infections and provide treatment where clinically appropriate — for patients of all ages, no GP referral needed.
Cost
Free NHS service
Eligibility
All ages
Duration
15 minutes
Who this is for
This service covers impetigo (a contagious bacterial skin infection) and mild to moderate cellulitis (infection of the deeper skin layers). It is available for patients of all ages.
Common symptoms
- ·Clusters of small blisters that burst and leave a honey-coloured crust
- ·Red, itchy sores — most commonly around the nose and mouth, or on limbs
- ·A spreading area of redness, warmth, swelling and tenderness in the skin
- ·Skin that feels hot to the touch
- ·Occasionally, fever or swollen glands nearby
This service is not suitable for
- ·Severe, rapidly spreading cellulitis covering a large area
- ·Cellulitis on the face (periorbital) — refer urgently
- ·High fever with skin infection requiring hospital assessment
- ·Significantly immunocompromised patients
- ·Deep wound infections or abscesses
Impetigo is highly contagious. Children should stay off school until 48 hours after starting treatment, or until sores are crusted over.
What happens at your appointment
01
Book
Book online or by phone. Complete our short health questionnaire before attending.
02
Assessment
Our pharmacist examines the affected skin, assesses severity and extent, and takes a brief health history.
03
Treatment
Where clinically appropriate, treatment is provided. The approach differs for impetigo and cellulitis.
04
Hygiene advice
Guidance on preventing spread within households, school attendance and when to return if symptoms worsen.
When to seek urgent care
Go to A&E or call 999 immediately if redness is spreading rapidly, you develop a high fever with shaking or chills, the skin turns dark or blistered, or you feel very unwell. These may be signs of a severe infection requiring hospital treatment.
Facial cellulitis, especially around the eyes, requires same-day GP assessment or A&E attendance.
Clinically reviewed by
James McKeever
Superintendent Pharmacist · GPhC reg. 1042294
Last reviewed: 17 June 2026