What should I do if my child has impetigo?

Understanding Impetigo

Impetigo is a common and highly contagious skin infection primarily affecting young children, though it can occur at any age. It is caused by bacteria, usually Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes, and appears as red sores that can ooze and form a yellow-brown crust. While impetigo is not usually serious, it can be uncomfortable and requires proper care to prevent spreading.

Recognising Symptoms

If your child has impetigo, you might notice red sores or blisters around their mouth, nose, or other exposed parts of the body. These sores can burst and ooze before developing a honey-coloured crust. In some cases, the affected area may be itchy or sore. Early recognition and treatment are essential to prevent the infection from spreading to other parts of the body or to other people.

Consulting a Healthcare Professional

It's important to consult with a healthcare professional if you suspect your child has impetigo. They can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. In the UK, contacting your GP or calling NHS 111 for advice and guidance is a good first step. In some cases, a healthcare provider may recommend seeing a dermatologist for specialised care.

Treatment Options

For mild cases of impetigo, your doctor may prescribe a topical antibiotic cream or ointment to apply to the affected area. Ensure that you follow the application instructions carefully, usually applying it for a week. If the infection is more severe or widespread, oral antibiotics might be necessary. Always complete the full course, even if symptoms improve, to reduce the risk of recurrence and antibiotic resistance.

Preventing the Spread

Impetigo is highly contagious, so it's crucial to take steps to prevent it from spreading to others. Keep your child home from school or nursery until they are no longer contagious, generally after 48 hours of starting antibiotic treatment or when the sores have healed. Teach your child to not touch or scratch the sores and to wash their hands regularly. Use separate towels for the infected child and wash all used items, like clothing and bedding, at a high temperature.

Managing at Home

Practicing good hygiene at home can aid recovery and prevent further infection. Gently clean the affected areas with soap and water and keep them covered with a loose bandage. Encourage your child to maintain short and clean nails to reduce the chance of spreading the bacteria by scratching. Monitor for signs of improvement or any worsening of symptoms, and follow up with your healthcare provider as recommended.