Cold Sores consultation in Cork | Book online

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  condition="Cold Sores"
  conditionSlug="cold-sores"
  county="Cork"
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  publishDate="2026-02-18"
  modifiedDate="2026-02-18"
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  condition="Cold Sores"
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# Cork Pharmacy Consultations for Cold Sores

**Book a Cold Sores consultation at a pharmacy in Cork — no GP referral needed. €35 via the HSE Common Conditions Service.**

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## What is Cold Sores?

Cold Sores is a common viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1).

In Ireland, approximately 1 in 4 Irish adults carry the HSV-1 virus.

In Cork, patients can access Cold Sores consultations directly at their local pharmacy under the HSE Common Conditions Service (CCS) — same-day appointments, €35 flat fee, no referral needed.

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## Symptoms to Watch For

- Tingling or burning sensation around the mouth (prodrome phase)
- Small, fluid-filled blisters on or around the lips
- Blisters that burst and crust over
- Soreness or pain at the site of infection
- Swollen lymph nodes or mild fever (primary infection)

> ⚠️ **Seek emergency care if:** Eye involvement (herpes keratitis); Widespread sores in immunocompromised patients

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## Why See a Pharmacist in Cork for Cold Sores?

Cork pharmacists trained in the Common Conditions Service can:

- ✅ **Assess and diagnose** Cold Sores on the same day
- ✅ **Prescribe treatment** without GP referral
- ✅ **Treat for just €35** (free for medical card holders)
- ✅ **Provide follow-up advice** and safety netting guidance

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## What to Expect in Your Cork CCS Consultation

Your consultation takes approximately **15-20 minutes** and includes:

1. **Medical history** — When symptoms started, what you've tried, relevant health history
2. **Assessment** — Physical examination appropriate to Cold Sores
3. **Diagnosis** — Whether your case suits CCS treatment or needs GP referral
4. **Treatment** — Prescription or recommendation of appropriate treatment
5. **Safety netting** — Clear guidance on what to watch for

**What to bring:** PPSN, medical card (if applicable), list of current medications

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## Available Treatments for Cold Sores

| Treatment | Type | When Used |
|-----------|------|-----------|
| Aciclovir cream 5% | Topical antiviral | Mild-moderate cold sores |
| Penciclovir cream | Topical antiviral | Alternative to aciclovir |
| Aciclovir/Valaciclovir tablets | Oral antiviral | Severe or recurrent episodes |

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## Safety Considerations

- **Who is eligible:** adults and children aged 12+
- **Exclusions:** immunocompromised patients, eye involvement, systemic symptoms
- **Medical card:** Holders in Cork may qualify for free consultation
- **Emergency:** If symptoms worsen rapidly, attend your nearest ED or call 999/112

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## Frequently Asked Questions

**Can a pharmacist in Cork treat Cold Sores?**

Yes. Cork pharmacists registered with the HSE Common Conditions Service are authorised to assess, diagnose, and treat Cold Sores. No GP referral is required.

**How much does a Cold Sores consultation cost in Cork?**

The standard CCS fee is €35. Medical card holders may qualify for free treatment.

**Do I need to book in advance for Cold Sores in Cork?**

Booking online is recommended. Many Cork CCS pharmacies also accept walk-ins.

**How quickly can I be seen for Cold Sores in Cork?**

Most CCS pharmacies in Cork offer same-day appointments.

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## Find Cork Pharmacies Offering Cold Sores Consultations

<PharmacyDirectory
  countySlug="cork"
  conditionSlug="cold-sores"
/>

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## Nearby Counties

- 🏥 [kerry Cold Sores consultations](/condition/cold-sores/kerry/)
- 🏥 [limerick Cold Sores consultations](/condition/cold-sores/limerick/)
- 🏥 [waterford Cold Sores consultations](/condition/cold-sores/waterford/)

[View all Cold Sores pharmacies →](/condition/cold-sores/)
[All CCS pharmacies in Cork →](/county/cork/)
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