Impetigo

• Red sores or blisters, often around the nose, mouth, hands, or feet
• Sores burst and leave a honey-colored or golden crust
• Itchy or sometimes painful skin patches
• Swollen lymph nodes near the affected area
• Fluid-filled blisters that may be larger (bullous impetigo)
• Sores that spread when scratched and touched elsewhere

Caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria entering the skin through small cuts, insect bites, or rashes like eczema. It spreads through direct contact with sores or by sharing towels, clothes, bedding, or toys with someone infected.

Impetigo is the most common bacterial skin infection in children, affecting an estimated 162 million children worldwide each year. It peaks in children ages 2 to 5 and is more common in warm, humid weather and in crowded settings like daycares and schools.

A doctor typically prescribes a topical antibiotic ointment (like mupirocin) for mild cases or oral antibiotics for more widespread infection. Keep the area clean by gently washing with soap and water, cover sores with loose gauze, and trim the child's fingernails to reduce scratching. Children can usually return to school 24 hours after starting antibiotics, once sores stop oozing.

Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after touching sores. Keep cuts, scrapes, and insect bites clean and covered. Do not share towels, washcloths, clothing, bedding, or razors. Wash the infected person's clothes, linens, and towels daily in hot water. Keep fingernails short and clean.

Track Impetigo and other illnesses at your child's school in real time.