Who can get impetigo?

Whether you're an adult or a young child, it's possible to get impetigo, so make sure to get it taken care of sooner rather than later.

Symptoms of impetigo

Impetigo starts with red sores or blisters which quickly burst and leave crusty, golden-brown patches.

Types of impetigo

Impetigo can present itself in two forms: bullous and non-bullous. Bullous impetigo involves fluid-filled blisters, while non-bullous impetigo leads to reddish sores that form a honey-colored crust. You might find these on your face, hands, or elsewhere on your body.

But there's no need to worry—treatment is available and can make a big difference. By acting quickly, we can help ease your symptoms and prevent impetigo from spreading. 

Causes of impetigo

Impetigo is an infection caused by two types of bacteria. These bacteria can sneak in through cuts, insect bites, or existing skin conditions. Factors like poor hygiene, close living quarters, and warm weather can increase your chances of getting impetigo.

But don’t worry—we're here to help you keep impetigo at bay. With a few simple steps, you can prevent and manage it effectively.

Impetigo prevention tips

1. Wash your hands regularly with soap and warm water
2. Keep any cuts or sores covered with a clean, dry bandage
3. Don’t share towels, razors, or clothes with others
4. Remind kids to practice good hygiene and not to touch or scratch any sores

By following these simple steps, you can reduce the risk of getting impetigo or spreading it to others.

Can impetigo spread to other parts of the body?

If left untreated, impetigo can spread to other parts of your body. But there are ways you can prevent this from happening.

Resist Scratching

We know it's tough, but try your best not to scratch those itchy sores. Scratching can make the bacteria spread, and we want to avoid that. Keep your hands away from the sores to prevent infection from moving to other areas of your body.

Take Action Quickly

If you suspect you have impetigo, it's important to act fast. Early treatment can control the infection and prevent complications. Don't hesitate to reach out to your pharmacist for guidance—they're here to help.

How to prevent spreading impetigo to others

• Make sure to wash your hands regularly with soap and warm water, especially after touching the affected area or items that might be contaminated.
• Try to avoid skin-to-skin contact with others during a bout of impetigo, particularly if they have open wounds or compromised skin.
• Cover open sores or blisters with sterile gauze or plasters to help reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
• Refrain from sharing towels, clothing, bed linens, or other personal items until you’re completely healed.
• Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may have come into contact with impetigo bacteria.
• Inform your family members, housemates, and close contacts about the infection and the importance of good hygiene to prevent its spread.
• If you suspect that you or someone you know has impetigo, seek medical advice promptly. Early treatment is essential in reducing the duration and contagiousness of the infection.

By following these simple steps, you’re not just caring for yourself but also protecting those around you. 

It’s important to stop impetigo spreading or getting worse as it can easily spread to other parts of the body or to other people until it stops being contagious. Impetigo stops being contagious either 48 hours after you start using medicine or when the patches dry out and crust over.

You may be offered a phone appointment for impetigo with your GP as it is so contagious. They can prescribe antibiotic cream to speed up your recovery or antibiotic tablets if it's very bad.