As a parent, seeing your child uncomfortable with a skin condition can be worrying. Impetigo, a highly contagious skin infection, is one of those conditions that often catches parents off guard. We’re here to provide you with answers, care, and compassionate guidance.

What Is Impetigo?

Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection caused by common bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes, which can infect the skin and lead to sores. It’s most common in young children, though it can affect individuals of any age. The infection typically starts as red sores or blisters around the nose, mouth, hands, or other exposed areas. Over time, these sores may ooze, develop a golden-yellow crust, and spread to other parts of the body or to other individuals.

How Do Kids Get Impetigo?

Impetigo is highly contagious and spreads easily through:

• Direct contact: Touching the infected skin of someone who has impetigo.
• Indirect contact: Sharing items like towels, clothing, toys, or bedding with an infected person.
• Broken skin: Cuts, scrapes, insect bites, or other skin injuries provide an entry point for the bacteria.

Children in daycare, school, or sports activities are particularly susceptible due to close contact with peers, such as sharing toys, playing contact sports, or using the same equipment.

What Are the Symptoms of Impetigo?

The symptoms of impetigo can vary but generally include:

• Red sores that quickly burst and form a yellowish-brown crust.
• Itchy lesions that may spread when scratched.
• Mild swelling or redness around the affected area.
• Occasionally, swollen lymph nodes or low-grade fever.

If you’re not sure if it’s impetigo, a quick check with your doctor can help.

Is Impetigo Serious?

For most children, impetigo is not serious and resolves with proper treatment. However, untreated impetigo can lead to complications like:

• Cellulitis (a deeper skin infection)
• Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (a rare kidney condition)
• Spread of the infection to other areas of the body or individuals

Prompt treatment, such as starting antibiotics or consulting a doctor quickly, can help avoid these outcomes.

How Is Impetigo Treated?

Treatment for impetigo typically involves:

1. Topical Antibiotics:
   1. Mild cases are often treated with an antibiotic ointment like mupirocin, applied directly to the affected skin.
2. Oral Antibiotics:
   1. For more widespread infections, a doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics to help clear the infection faster.
3. Hygiene Measures:
   1. Regular handwashing and cleaning of infected areas.
   1. Keeping your child’s fingernails trimmed to prevent scratching and spreading the infection.
   1. Washing your child’s clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water daily until the infection clears.

How Can I Prevent Impetigo in My Family?

Here are some tips to minimize the risk:

• Teach your child proper handwashing techniques.
• Avoid sharing personal items like towels and washcloths.
• Clean and cover any cuts or scrapes promptly to prevent bacteria from entering.
• Keep your child home from school or daycare until they’ve been on antibiotics for at least 24 hours or as directed by your provider.

When Should I Seek Medical Help for Impetigo?

You should contact a healthcare provider if:

• The sores are spreading rapidly or not improving after a few days.
• Your child has a fever or other concerning symptoms.
• You’re uncertain about the diagnosis or how to care for your child’s skin.

How Can Pediatric Telehealth of Colorado Help?

At Pediatric Telehealth of Colorado, we understand the challenges of parenting through illnesses like impetigo. Here’s how we can assist:

• Virtual Appointments: Connect with our pediatric providers from the comfort of your home. We can evaluate your child’s symptoms, confirm the diagnosis, and prescribe the necessary treatment.
• Pediatric Nurse Advice Line: Unsure whether your child’s rash is impetigo or something else? Our experienced pediatric nurses can guide you on the next steps, answer your questions, and offer peace of mind.

Compassionate Care When You Need It Most

We know how important your child’s health and comfort are. Impetigo may be a common condition, but it can feel overwhelming when it affects your little one. At Pediatric Telehealth of Colorado, we’re here to provide expert care with a personal touch. Reach out today to schedule a virtual appointment or use our pediatric nurse advice line for immediate support. Your child’s health is our priority.

Written by:

Pediatric Telehealth of Colorado Editorial Team

Medically Reviewed by:

Brooke Douglas, CPNP