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Impetigo

Last Updated: July 3, 2026

Key Points

  • Very contagious skin infection
  • Common in young children
  • Often clears in days with treatment
  • Starts as red sores or blisters
  • Can spread easily to others

Overview

Impetigo is a common and highly contagious skin infection. It's generally not serious and can affect anyone, though it's most frequently seen in young children. With proper treatment, impetigo usually improves within a few days. It typically develops on skin that's already damaged, such as from cuts, scratches, insect bites, or existing skin conditions like eczema. Bacteria enter through these breaks in the skin, leading to infection. Treatment often involves creams or oral antibiotics, and it's crucial to complete the full course to prevent recurrence and further spread. Preventing spread is key due to its contagious nature.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Red sores or blisters
  • Sores quickly burst
  • Crusty, golden-brown patches (like cornflakes)
  • Patches can grow and spread
  • Often itchy, sometimes painful
  • Redness may be harder to see on darker skin

Things That Increase the Risk

  • Being a young child
  • Existing skin damage (cuts, scratches, insect bites)
  • Skin conditions (eczema, scabies)
  • Weakened immune system (e.g., chemotherapy)
  • Close contact with infected individuals

Diagnosis

  • Pharmacist or GP examination of symptoms
  • Swab from skin or nose (if recurring)
  • Distinguishing from other skin infections (e.g., cellulitis)

Treatment & Management

  • Hydrogen peroxide cream
  • Antibiotic cream
  • Antibiotic tablets (for severe cases, babies, or weakened immune systems)
  • Antiseptic body wash (for recurring cases)
  • Nasal ointment (for recurring cases)
  • Complete full course of medication

Prevention

  • Keep cuts, scratches, insect bites clean
  • Treat existing skin conditions (eczema)
  • Wash hands frequently
  • Avoid touching or scratching sores
  • Wash bedding, towels, toys at high temperature
  • Stay home from school/work until no longer contagious

Available Treatments

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Impetigo Treatment

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Contents

Quick Info

Affects

Skin, common in young children

Prevalence

Very contagious, widespread

Diagnosis

Visual examination, sometimes swab

Treatment

Topical or oral antibiotics

Medically Reviewed

Dr. Vijay Bhat

Dr. Vijay Bhat

Orthopedic Surgeon · Apollo Hospitals, Chennai

Reviewed on July 3, 2026

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