Impetigo

What is impetigo?

Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection. It spreads easily. It is very common in young children, especially babies. Without treatment, impetigo can last for several months, it can spread and it can develop into a more severe infection.

Signs and symptoms of impetigo

The symptoms of impetigo change over time:

• At first, the child develops small or large blisters on a red background. The blisters contain pus. They appear around the mouth or nose. They may also appear in the diaper area.
• The blisters then split open. They form irregular sores. The sores may grow larger.
• The surface of the sore dries. Honey-coloured crusts form on the sore.
• The sores become itchy after the blisters burst.
  

Causes of impetigo

Impetigo is caused by bacteria. The bacteria enter the body through a cut, open sore, insect bite or cracked skin. Impetigo is usually caused by Staphylococcus aureus. This is called a staph infection. Impetigo may also be caused by Streptococcus pyogenes. This is called a strep infection.

Your child is more likely to get this infection if they have:

• dry or flaky skin
• eczema
• burns, scratches, splinters, cuts or scrapes
• other skin infections
• spider or insect bites
• contact with another person with untreated impetigo

What your child's doctor can do

Physical examination

Usually, the doctor can see if your child has impetigo just by looking at the skin. The doctor may also suggest other tests. However, these tests are usually not needed.

Antibiotics

Your child's doctor will likely prescribe an antibiotic ointment. The ointment will be effective against the bacteria. You will need to spread the ointment on the sores a few times a day.

The impetigo should improve after a few days. However, even if your child feels better, do NOT stop giving the antibiotics before finishing the full amount prescribed. This infection can come back, especially if the complete treatment is not given.

If your child's impetigo is more severe or getting worse, your child may need an oral antibiotic (taken by mouth).

Taking care of your child at home

Apply ointment to open sores

Using a clean finger, apply the ointment on the open sores. Do this a few times a day. Gently remove crusts or scabs with a cotton ball dipped in salt water.

Finish all antibiotics

Make sure to complete all the prescribed antibiotics. Do this even if your child is feeling better.

Impetigo spreads easily

Impetigo spreads easily from person to person. The infection can be spread by touching an open sore of an infected person. Keep your child away from other children until the infection has cleared up completely. With treatment, impetigo usually clears within five days.

When to see a doctor

Book an appointment immediately with your child's doctor if your child is showing symptoms of impetigo.

See your doctor again if:

• your child does not seem to be improving with the prescribed treatment
• your child develops new symptoms, such as fever, difficulty keeping liquids or antibiotics down, or difficulty breathing