What bacteria cause impetigo?

These bacteria can enter through scratched, bitten or irritated skin and produce a superficial, contagious infection. The appearance and extent usually guide initial management; testing is reserved for situations where it could change treatment.

Impetigo often begins as small sores or blisters that rupture and leave yellow-brown crusting. It commonly affects exposed skin and can spread to nearby areas through touching and scratching. Impetigo commonly presents with crusting skin, but crusting can also occur with eczema and other infections, so appearance alone may not settle the diagnosis.

Atopic dermatitis and insect bites can weaken the barrier and create entry points. Carrying the bacteria on normal-looking skin does not by itself mean a person has impetigo; infection refers to the compatible skin changes caused by bacterial growth.

Arrange clinical advice for suspected impetigo, particularly when it is spreading or affects several areas. Treatment may involve a topical antibiotic for limited disease or an oral antibiotic when infection is more extensive, but local prescribing guidance and individual factors determine the choice. Use antibiotics exactly as prescribed.

Wash hands after touching affected skin, keep nails short, avoid scratching, and do not share towels, razors, clothing or bedding. Gently clean the skin as advised and cover weeping areas when practical. Do not pick crusts aggressively or use someone else's antibiotic cream.

Seek prompt medical care if redness spreads beyond the sores, pain or swelling increases, fever develops, the person seems unwell, or the infection is near an eye. Young infants, people with weakened immunity, and anyone whose skin worsens during treatment also need timely review. Rapidly spreading redness with fever can indicate a deeper infection rather than uncomplicated impetigo.

Ask whether the rash fits impetigo, whether a swab is useful, and whether topical or oral treatment is more suitable. Confirm how to apply or take the medicine, how to manage eczema underneath the infection, how to reduce household spread, and what lack of improvement should prompt reassessment.