Impetigo
Also known as: School Sores, Infantigo
Impetigo is a highly contagious superficial bacterial skin infection most common in young children, caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. It produces characteristic honey-colored crusted sores. While easily treated with antibiotics, impetigo spreads rapidly in schools and daycare through direct contact.
At a Glance
- Common symptoms
- Red sores that rupture, ooze, and form honey-colored crusts, Fluid-filled blisters (bullous impetigo), Itching around affected areas
- Main treatments
- Topical antibiotics (mupirocin or retapamulin) for localized infections, Oral antibiotics (cephalexin) for widespread infections, Gentle cleansing of crusted areas
- Category
- Infectious · Affects about 162 million children worldwide at any given time
- See a doctor if
- Sores are spreading despite home care
Symptoms
Causes
- Staphylococcus aureus (most common, including MRSA strains)
- Group A Streptococcus
- Bacteria entering through breaks in the skin
Risk Factors
- Age 2–5 years
- Close contact in schools or sports
- Warm, humid climates
- Existing skin conditions such as eczema
- Crowded living conditions
- Poor hygiene
Diagnosis
- Clinical diagnosis based on characteristic appearance
- Bacterial culture for severe or recurrent cases
- Swab of the lesion to identify the organism
Treatment
- Topical antibiotics (mupirocin or retapamulin) for localized infections
- Oral antibiotics (cephalexin) for widespread infections
- Gentle cleansing of crusted areas
- MRSA coverage if MRSA is suspected
Prevention
- Wash hands frequently
- Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered
- Avoid sharing towels or personal items
- Keep children home from school until 24 hours after starting antibiotics
When to See a Doctor
- Sores are spreading despite home care
- The area becomes red, warm, or swollen (cellulitis)
- Fever develops with the skin sores
- Sores are recurrent or not improving
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Conditions
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