What is the immediate action required for shingles presenting near the eye?

When shingles, or herpes zoster, presents near the eye, the immediate action is to refer the patient to ophthalmology. This condition can lead to serious complications, including herpes zoster ophthalmicus, which can affect the cornea and potentially cause vision loss. The ophthalmology specialist can conduct a thorough examination of the eye to assess for any signs of involvement and initiate appropriate treatment, such as antiviral therapy or other interventions, to manage any complications that may arise.

While antiviral ointments and oral antivirals are appropriate treatments for shingles, they do not address the immediate risk of ocular complications. Monitoring the condition without intervention is inadequate given the potential for the virus to cause significant damage to the eye. Therefore, timely referral to an ophthalmologist is crucial for the patient's visual health and safety.