Impetigo:

Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection which commonly affects the face, often around the nose and mouth. It often starts with redness which develops into septic, weeping spots and then crusts typically with a very golden colour. Young children are particularly likely to get impetigo and can become miserable and slightly feverish with it.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

Often the appearances will be fairly typical and your doctor or practice nurse will be able to diagnose it quite easily in most cases. With treatment, the spots will heal up without scarring. In mild cases treatment with antibiotic cream is all that is necessary but, in more severe cases, antibiotic tablets or syrup may be needed.

Infectivity:

Impetigo is infectious and easily spread from person to person, mainly when the septic spots are discharging fluid and pus. It is spread by direct contact with the skin of an infected person or by sharing towels, etc. Frequent handwashing is the best way of preventing this. Typically impetigo is infectious for between 4 and 10 days.

Children should not attend school during this infectious period.

Simple measures to help:

Covering the infected area is not advised - it is best to leave it open to the air. Children should be given plenty of fluids and paracetamol as required. Washing hands frequently will help prevent infection spreading. Once the spots are healing up and the child is feeling well they are very unlikely to be infectious to other children.

Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice or substituted for professional advice. Always consult your doctor with your questions and concerns.