Impetigo 1yr+

Symptoms of Impetigo
The main symptom of impetigo is red sores or blisters, often filled with pus. These blisters can quickly burst, leaving behind crusty, golden-brown patches on the skin. These patches may:

• Resemble cornflakes stuck to the skin
• Increase in size
• Spread to other areas of the body
• Feel itchy
• Become painful or tender

It can take anywhere from 4 to 10 days after coming into contact with the bacteria for the symptoms to appear.

Who qualifies for a Pharmacy First Impetigo appointment?

• Patients registered with a GP
• Individuals showing symptoms listed above
• People aged 1 year and older

What Causes Impetigo?
Impetigo is caused by bacterial infections, typically Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. The bacteria can enter the skin through breaks, such as cuts, insect bites, or from existing skin conditions like eczema, scabies, or head lice.

Impetigo spreads easily through close contact with someone who has the infection, such as through direct touch or by sharing towels or bedding. People with weakened immune systems, such as those with diabetes or undergoing chemotherapy, are more susceptible to impetigo.

How to Prevent Impetigo from Spreading
The NHS advises the following measures to stop the spread of impetigo:

• Stay home as much as possible to avoid contact with others
• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water
• Avoid touching or scratching sores, blisters, or scabs
• Keep affected areas clean, dry, and covered with loose clothing or bandages
• Wash towels and bedding at a high temperature
• Clean any toys your child may have used if they have impetigo

How to Treat Impetigo
Impetigo may improve on its own, as the infection usually stops being contagious when the patches dry out and form crusts, typically within 2 to 3 weeks. However, since the infection is highly contagious, it’s advisable to seek treatment for quicker recovery.

Using antibiotics or antibiotic creams will generally clear up the infection, and the person will no longer be contagious 48 hours after starting treatment.