How is impetigo different in children?

Children commonly touch, scratch, and share toys or towels, so bacteria can move from one area of skin to another or between children. The infection may begin around the nose and mouth, on the hands, or where a scratch, insect bite, or eczema has broken the skin. Blisters can occur in some cases, while other sores start as red spots or tiny fluid-filled areas before crusting. A child may otherwise feel well, but the affected skin remains contagious while infection is active.

A clinician may recommend a prescribed cream or ointment for a small, localised area, or medicine taken by mouth when sores are widespread, blistering, or difficult to treat on the skin. Gently wash the area, pat it dry, keep fingernails short, and avoid picking. Do not share towels, clothing, bedding, or personal items. Covering sores as advised can reduce spread, and handwashing after touching the area protects family members.

Arrange prompt medical assessment if sores are spreading, painful, recurrent, or close to the eyes, or if the child has fever, marked tiredness, or swollen glands. Seek urgent help for rapidly increasing swelling around the eye, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or a child who appears seriously unwell. A clinician can distinguish impetigo from eczema, insect bites, cold sores, and other childhood rashes.

Ask which treatment is suitable for the number and location of sores, how long the child should avoid close contact, and when school or nursery attendance is appropriate. Also ask how to clean the skin and what to do if new sores appear after treatment begins.