What is Impetigo?
Impetigo is a common and highly contagious bacterial skin infection that primarily affects children. It's caused by either Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria.
Key Symptoms
- Red sores that quickly rupture and develop honey-colored crusts
- Itchy, fluid-filled blisters
- Reddish, irritated skin
- Most commonly affects the face, particularly around nose and mouth
- Can also appear on hands, feet, and trunk
Types of Impetigo
Non-bullous Impetigo
- Most common form (70% of cases)
- Characterized by honey-colored crusts
- Usually appears around the nose and mouth
Bullous Impetigo
- Causes larger fluid-filled blisters
- More common in newborns and infants
- Usually appears on the trunk and extremities
Treatment Options
-
Topical Antibiotics
- Mupirocin ointment
- Applied directly to affected areas
-
Oral Antibiotics
- Used for severe or widespread cases
- Common options include cephalexin or dicloxacillin
Prevention Methods
- Regular hand washing
- Keeping fingernails short and clean
- Avoiding touching or scratching sores
- Using separate towels and washcloths
- Cleaning and covering any cuts or scrapes
When to Seek Medical Care
- If sores don't heal within a week
- If the infection appears to spread
- If fever develops
- If sores are painful
Important Notes
- Highly contagious until treated
- Children should stay home from school until 24 hours after starting antibiotics
- Complete entire course of prescribed antibiotics
- Usually clears completely within 7-10 days with treatment