Impetigo (school sores) factsheet
Introduction
Impetigo is a skin infection that causes sores, usually on the face. It is also called school sores.
Impetigo is caused by two types of bacteria:
- Streptococcus pyogenes - group A strep
- Staphylococcus aureus - staph
These bacteria can enter the skin through a scratch, cut, or break caused by:
- eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis
- scabies
- insect bites
- head lice.
Impetigo can also happen on healthy skin. It is not caused by poor hygiene.
Impetigo sores contain bacteria, so your child can spread the infection until the sores heal completely.
Signs and symptoms
Impetigo can cause crusting or blistering on the skin.
Crusted impetigo causes red, wet skin with a soft yellow crust. It grows slowly, and the sores are usually small. The crust may be itchy, but it should not be painful.
Blistering impetigo causes blisters that burst quickly and leave shiny, wet spots with a brown crust on the edges. These can grow fast and form ring shapes. The blisters may be itchy, but should not be painful.
Diagnosis
Your child’s doctor can diagnose impetigo by checking their skin. They may take a swab if needed.
Treatment
Impetigo is usually treated with antibiotics. Your child’s doctor may take a swab of one of the sores to help choose the right antibiotic.
It is important your child finishes the full course of antibiotics, even if they start feeling better. This helps clear the infection completely. If sores remain after the antibiotics, see your doctor again.
If other people in the home get skin sores, they may also need treatment to stop the infection from spreading.
At home, you can gently clean the sores with a disposable wet cloth after a bath. Cover sores with waterproof dressings to prevent scratching, washing your hands before and after touching the sores.
Management
Reducing the spread of impetigo
You can help prevent impetigo by:
- getting treatment for skin conditions early
- cleaning and covering cuts or scratches
- encouraging regular handwashing with soap
- helping your child avoid scratching or picking at their skin.
To reduce the spread of impetigo:
- cover all sores with waterproof dressings
- bathe or shower your child daily, using a clean towel each time
- wash hands with soap regularly, especially after touching sores
- trim and clean your child’s fingernails
- clean toys and play areas regularly with disinfectant
- wash clothes and bedding often and separately from the rest of the family
- for laundry, use a hot wash and dry in the sun or tumble dryer
- avoid sharing clothes, towels, toothbrushes, or hygiene tools like nail clippers or razors.
