Impetigo

Impetigo is a contagious bacterial infection most often occurring at the site of broken skin. The most common location is around the mouth and nose, although it can occur on arms and legs.  Impetigo is seen most commonly in children and rarely in adults. 

Causes

Impetigo occurs more often in the summer and affects children almost exclusively. The causative organisms are Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes .  Because some strains of streptococcus implicated in impetigo may cause glomerulonephritis (but not rheumatic fever), children with impetigo should be seen by a physician. Touching or picking the sores can spread the bacteria to other parts of the body or to other people.

Symptoms

Impetigo starts as a small, itchy, water-filled blister that turns into a yellow pus-filled sore. After rupturing, it develops a honey-colored crust with an inflamed border .

Treatment

With quick and careful home treatment, impetigo can be brought under control in several days. If you think your child has impetigo, contact your doctor. He or she will prescribe a medication to help heal the infection.

Self-Care Steps for Impetigo

• Apply Domboro solution (available without a prescription) to sores twice a day for 10 minutes.

• Remove crusts from sores with a cotton swab. Then, with a separate swab, apply Bacitracin, Neosporin or another topical antibiotic medication.

• Wash your hands well with antibacterial soap and water after cleaning sores and applying ointment.

• Don't cover the area with an adhesive bandage unless the sore is in an area where the scab may rub off. If needed to keep children from scratching, cover with a dry gauze pad and keep the tape as far from the sore as possible.

• Make sure everyone in the household uses separate towels, washcloths, and bath water. Wash bedding, towels, and clothes with Lysol or bleach. Dry on high heat or in the sun.

• Call your doctor if sores do not improve after 3 days of medication and home care.