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Advice: Impetigo

Impetigo

Impetigo basics

  • Impetigo is a contagious bacterial skin infection that is most common around the nose and mouth but can spread anywhere on the body.
  • Impetigo typically starts as red bumps which progress to fluid-filled blisters, and eventually to yellow, crusted lesions.
  • Any break in the skin from prior injury, scratches, or scrapes can become infected with bacteria.
  • Impetigo is spread to other children with direct skin to skin contact. Open sores are most contagious. Impetigo outbreaks can often occur in classrooms, summer camps or on sports teams
  • More than 90% of impetigo cases are infections caused by staphylococcus bacteria, but can also be caused by streptococcus bacteria. Treatment usually targets both bacteria.

Treatment

  • Impetigo is treated with antibiotics either topically (applied directly on the skin) or, if symptoms are widespread, oral antibiotics may be needed.
  • Apply antibiotic ointment as prescribed to the infected area, but also underneath fingernails and around nostrils - where the bacteria like to live - to prevent further spread of infection.
  • Avoid scratching and touching the sores, and keep areas covered with clothing to prevent spread.
  • Wash your hands frequently and keep fingernails trimmed and clean.
  • Impetigo is contagious until the rash dries up or clears and/or 48 hours on antibiotics. Avoid close contact with other children during this time.

When to seek care

  • Impetigo requires prescription antibiotics so a visit with a provider is needed
  • If your child develops a new fever
  • If symptoms are worsening/spreading despite current treatment.
  • If your child develops dark brown-colored urine or blood in urine (this is rarely seen as a complication of a streptococcal infection)
  • If your child develops joint pain, swelling or redness
  • If you are concerned

Additional Resrouces

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