Impetigo: Spot It, Treat It, Stop It!
You may not have heard of impetigo, but it’s one of the most common skin infections out there, especially in kids. Luckily, it’s easy to treat and even easier to prevent when you know what to look for.
What Is Impetigo?
Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. It often shows up as red sores or blisters that can ooze and form a honey-colored crust. These sores are usually found on the face around the nose and mouth, but they can also appear on the hands, arms, or legs.
It’s very contagious and spreads through skin contact, shared items (like towels or toys), or even scratching an itchy sore and touching another part of the body. While anyone can get impetigo, it’s most common in children under 12, especially during warm, humid months.
Signs and Symptoms
Here’s how to spot impetigo:
Small red spots or blisters: These may quickly burst, leaving behind crusty patches that resemble dried honey.
Itchy skin: The infected area may feel irritated and tempting to scratch.
Spreading sores: If left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the body or others through contact.
Causes of Impetigo
Impetigo happens when bacteria enter the skin through small cuts, scratches, or insect bites. It can also occur on healthy skin, especially if it’s exposed to frequent friction, heat, or poor hygiene.
Some factors that increase the risk include:
Close contact in schools, daycare centers, or sports teams
Hot and humid weather
Sharing personal items like towels or razors
Treatment
Luckily, impetigo can be treated and cured. Depending on the severity, your dermatologist may recommend:
Topical Antibiotics: Ointments or creams applied directly to the sores can clear up the infection quickly.
Oral Antibiotics: For more widespread infections, a prescription antibiotic pill might be needed.
Treatment typically clears up impetigo within seven-to-10 days, but it’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions to prevent spreading or recurring infections.
Prevention Tips: Keep Impetigo at Bay
Preventing impetigo is all about good hygiene and minimizing skin-to-skin contact:
Wash hands regularly
Keep cuts clean and covered
Avoid sharing personal items
Clean frequently used surfaces and sports equipment
If someone in your household has impetigo, wash their clothes, towels, and bedding separately in hot water to prevent the infection from spreading.
Any questions? Consult one of our board-certified dermatologists. Please contact SSDP to schedule an appointment with any of our physicians.
